Necrozoospermia

The causes of necrozoospermia are diverse and can be triggered by internal or external factors:

- Infections: Bacterial or viral infections of the reproductive organs, such as prostatitis or epididymitis, can lead to sperm damage and cause necrozoospermia.

- Oxidative stress: An excess of free radicals and a lack of antioxidants can lead to damage to the sperm, affecting their survival and motility.

- Autoimmune diseases: In some cases, the immune system attacks and destroys the sperm, leading to necrozoospermia.

- Toxins and environmental factors: Excessive exposure to chemicals, heavy metals, radiation, or toxins can impair the viability of the sperm.

- Disorders of seminal fluid: Changes in the composition of seminal fluid can negatively affect the survival of the sperm and lead to their death.

Necrozoospermia usually does not cause any obvious physical symptoms. The main symptom is the inability to conceive children naturally. However, men with necrozoospermia may also suffer from underlying issues such as urinary tract infections, prostatitis, or hormonal imbalances, which can cause additional symptoms such as pain, fever, or sexual dysfunction.

The diagnosis is usually made through a spermogram, in which the sperm are examined for their viability. In necrozoospermia, 100% of the sperm are dead. The following tests can be conducted for further investigation of the cause:

• Vital staining: This special staining method helps to distinguish between dead and living sperm to determine the exact number of dead sperm.
• Urinalysis and blood tests: To detect possible infections or inflammatory processes that could cause necrozoospermia.
• Hormone tests: Blood tests to check hormone levels to rule out hormonal disorders.
• Genetic tests: Genetic examinations can be conducted if genetic causes are suspected.

The treatment depends on the cause of necrozoospermia:

• Antibiotics: If infections are the cause, antibiotic therapy is used to eliminate the infection.
• Antioxidant therapy: Supplements rich in antioxidants such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, or zinc can help reduce oxidative stress and improve sperm viability.
• Immunosuppressive therapy: In cases of autoimmune-related necrozoospermia, medications can be used to suppress the immune response and prevent the destruction of sperm.
• Assisted reproductive techniques (ART): If living sperm are present in the ejaculate or testes, they can be extracted and used for procedures such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

To prevent necrozoospermia, it is important to treat infections of the reproductive organs early to avoid damage to the sperm. A healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet, avoiding toxins and stress, as well as refraining from smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, can also help maintain sperm quality. Regular medical examinations and the treatment of underlying conditions such as prostatitis or hormonal disorders are also important.