Androloji laboratuvarlarında semen analizi standardizasyonun Dünya Sağlık Örgütü (DSÖ) kriterlerine göre değerlendirilmesi

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Due to its complexity and subjectivity, semen analysis is difficult to standardize across laboratories. Our aim in this study is to collect basic information about semen analysis of andrology laboratories in Türkiye and to determine the level of standardization within and between laboratories for semen analysis. MATERIAL and METHODS: A survey consisting of 41 questions covering all aspects of semen analysis was sent to 145 andrology laboratories that perform semen analysis in Türkiye. Of all, 106 laboratories filled out and returned the survey. The content of the survey was prepared according to the procedures specified in the 6th edition of the 2021 World Health Organization (WHO) laboratory handbook for the examination and processing of human semen. The survey was designed to obtain information about the reported parameters, semen collection and storage, macroscopic-microscopic evaluation, advanced tests and internal-external quality control of the laboratory. RESULTS: In relation to the laboratories, 84.1% of the parameters reported in semen analysis, 75.8% of the semen collection phase, 76.5% of the storage of semen in the laboratory and macroscopic analysis, 78.07% of the microscopic analysis of semen, 49.8% of advanced tests and 73% of the parameters related to quality criteria were compatible with WHO 2021 criteria. CONCLUSION: There appear to be differences between laboratories in Türkiye in the reporting and standardization of semen analysis according to the WHO 2021 criteria. Many different standards and criteria are used for semen analysis in andrology laboratories. This makes it difficult to compare results from one laboratory to another. Therefore, it should be recommended that semen analysis be evaluated according to the criteria set by international standards and guidelines. Keywords: semen analysis, andrology laboratory, microscopic analysis