Sperm agglutination is defined as the binding of motile spermatozoa to each other. This binding can occur head-to-head, tail-to-tail or head-to-tail.
This agglutination is observed in the semenogram. It is usually due to the presence of antibodies that are anti-spermatozoa. These antibodies bind to the surface of the spermatozoa, causing them to stick together.
The reproductive problem generated by this agglutination of spermatozoa is that it hinders or makes it difficult for the spermatozoa to reach the fallopian tube, where they must meet the egg for one of them to fertilise it.
There are specific tests to detect these antibodies, the Mar-Test studies IgA type antibodies, and is considered positive when there are more than 50% of spermatozoa united.
On the other hand, the Immunobeads test is a more complex study, which detects IgA and IgG antibodies, and also indicates in which area the spermatozoa are united. It is positive when there is a 20% union.
As for the causes of the production of these antibodies, there are all those that can break the blood-testicular barrier, such as: trauma, vasectomy reversals, testicular tumours, testicular infections or testicular surgeries.
As for treatment, it must be personalised according to each particular case, and corticoids may be used for a limited period of time.
To carry out an assisted reproduction treatment such as In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF), once the sample has been obtained, a seminal lavage is performed to eliminate as many antibodies as possible, in order to select the spermatozoa to be used for fertilisation (IVF-ICSI).
