Significance of differentiation of round cell count in semen in infertile men: A cost-effective study

Abstract

Background: The significance of the presence of immature germ cells (IGCs) and leukocytes in semen have not very frequently been highlighted in the diagnostic criteria of male infertility. Round cell count differentiation aids in better clinical correlation. Aim and Objectives: To differentiate the round cells into IGCs and leukocytes in the semen and to find their correlation with the total sperm count and sperm motility. Materials and Methods: Semen samples from patients at Bharati hospital, Sangli for evaluation of infertility from July 2014 to January 2015 were analyzed as per the WHO criteria. After the consent and collection of the semen sample, routine semen analysis was done. Smears of semen were prepared and stained by Leishman stain. The round cells were counted and differentiated into IGCs and leukocytes. Results: We studied 103 cases. Semen parameters such as total sperm count, motility were noted. The smears were studied for differential counts of round cell count into IGC count and leukocyte. The cases were divided into four groups based on total sperm count. Maximum number of cases was found in group III. Our study shows that round cell count is 5%–10% of the total sperm count. Negative correlation was noted between the total sperm count and IGCs. The correlation of total sperm count and leukocytes was negative and significant. Conclusion: The present study shows that differentiation of round cells in the semen can be effectively differentiated into spermatogenic and nonspermatogenic cells with the use of simple and cost-effective stain like Leishman stain. The correlation of sperm count with the IGCs and leukocytes and sperm motility is of immense use to find out the possible cause of infertility.