Hyaluronan Binding Assay (HBA) versus Sperm Penetration Assay (SPA). Can HBA replace the use of SPA test in male partner screening before in vitro fertilization?
Abstract
Structured abstract:
Objective: To determine if a less expensive, easier, and faster to perform HBA test is clinically equal to the more complicated, technically challenging and expensive SPA test as a reliable indicator of sperm fertilizing capacity.
Design: Prospective study.
Setting: Andrology laboratory within In Vitro Fertilization Program.
Patient(s): Semen samples from 26 infertility couples were analyzed. Both, normal and male factor patients were included.
Intervention(s): Male partner screening with the HBA and the SPA tests.
Main Outcome Measure(s): Relationship between HBA and SPA test results.
Result(s): The data obtained in this study showed no statistically significant relationship between the HBA and SPA results. The mean HBA scores 76.3%, 61.3% and 76.8% were statistically not significantly different as compared to patients with negative (8) sperm capacitation index values.
Conclusion(s): The HBA is not predictive of the results of the SPA. Hence, if the SPA is a reliable indicator of the fertilizing capacity of human spermatozoa then the HBA is not and we do not suggest replacing SPA with HBA.
Key Words: Hyaluronan-binding assay, sperm penetration assay, male partner screening
Full Text: full text (PDF)
Journal of Experimental & Clinical Assisted Reproduction (JECAR)
Published by The Sims Institute Press Ltd Dublin & New York 2010
Promote open access - contribute to help support the Journal of Experimental & Clinical Assisted Reproduction