The Correlation between Ultrasound Testicular Volume and Conventional Semen Parameters in Albanian Subfertile Males

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The study is conducted to evaluate the relationship between testicular volume measured by ultrasound and conventional sperm parameters (volume, concentration, total count, motility and morphology) in Albanian subfertile males and to determine a normal limit value of the testicular volume.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 500 males were observed for this study. The testicular volumes of all subjects were measured by ultrasonography. The semen samples were collected by the process of masturbation after 3-5 days of ejaculatory abstinence and were analyzed according to WHO criteria 2010.RESULTS: Testicular volume has a strong positive correlation with sperm count, total count and motility and a positive correlation with semen volume.CONCLUSION: Testicular volume has a direct correlation with semen parameters and the critical total testicular volume indicating normal testicular function is approximately 26.6 ml (the mean testicular volume 13.3 ml). The measurement of testicular volume can be helpful for assessing fertility at the initial physical examination.