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Influence of pathogens and moderate leukocytes on seminal interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and sperm parameters

  • Urology - Original Paper
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Abstract

Purpose

To evaluate the role of pathogens and moderate leukocytes on seminal interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and sperm parameters in men undergoing infertility investigation.

Methods

Semen samples from men (n = 171) were divided into three groups on the basis of leukocyte count: no leukocytes (L−; ≤0.1 × 106/ml Mio/ml), moderate leukocytes (L±; >0.1 × 106/ml and <1 × 106/ml), and high leukocytes (=leukocytospermia) (L+; ≥1 × 106/ml). Each group was further classified into two subgroups, according to the presence (B+) or absence (B−) of pathogens. IL-6, IL-8, and sperm characteristics were analyzed in each subgroup. A correlation test was performed to show the association between inflammatory parameters and sperm characteristics.

Results

No significant differences in leukocyte count, cytokine levels, and sperm characteristics were apparent in subgroups with and without pathogens. Grade b motility was significantly lower in subgroup IIa (L±,B−) than in subgroup Ia (L−,B−)(p < 0.05). More significant limitations in sperm motility (lower rapid progressive motility and increased percentage of immotile sperm) were observed in subgroup IIIa (L+,B−) compared with subgroup Ia (p < 0.05). Moderate and high leukocytes increased significantly cytokine levels (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Moderate leukocyte counts could be an indicator of male genital tract inflammation. Seminal pathogens have no influence on cytokine levels and sperm parameters.

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The authors declared no conflicts of interest.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Urology, Krankenhaus Hietzing mit Neurologischem Zentrum Rosenhügel, Wolkersbergenstr.1, 1130, Vienna, Austria

    Artin Aghazarian, Igor Stancik, Heinz Pflüger & Jakob Lackner

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  1. Artin Aghazarian
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  2. Igor Stancik
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  3. Heinz Pflüger
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  4. Jakob Lackner
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Correspondence to Artin Aghazarian.

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Aghazarian, A., Stancik, I., Pflüger, H. et al. Influence of pathogens and moderate leukocytes on seminal interleukin (IL)-6, IL-8, and sperm parameters. Int Urol Nephrol 45, 359–365 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11255-013-0400-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11255-013-0400-8

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