Should repeated TESE be performed following a failed TESE in men with Klinefelter Syndrome?

Abstract

The main goal of this study was to evaluate the success rate of repeated Testicular Sperm Extraction (TESE) in Klinefelter Syndrome (KS). Eighteen patients with the diagnosis of KS who had undergone micro TESE previously were re-evaluated between May 2007 and May 2012. Testes were measured and testicular volume was calculated by orchidometer and by scrotal ultrasonography in all patients All patients underwent repeated micro TESE. Serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone levels and testicular volume of the patients with and without successful sperm retrieval were compared statistically. A p value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The mean age of the patients was 30.3years. The mean testicular volume was 2.08 and 2.1mL for right and left testes respectively. The comparisons of serum FSH, LH, testosterone levels and testicular volume between patients with and without successful sperm retrieval did not show any significant difference. Three of the 18 patients who underwent repeated micro TESE, had successful sperm retrieval and repeated TESE failed in 15 patients. Three patients with successful sperm retrieval underwent intracytoplasmic sperm injection using retrieved testicular spermatozoa. Two embryos for each patient which were determined as healthy were transferred to the wives of the patients. Pregnancy occured in one of them and a healthy female infant was born. We conclude that consideration and hope must be given for a repeated micro TESE in patients with KS, even with a minimal chance of success.