[Internal standardization of sperm morphology evaluated according to strict morphological criteria]. / Próba standaryzacji badan morfologicznych plemników w oparciu o material wlasny pracowni seminologicznej.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate sperm morphology and find cut-off values for local andrology lab based on morphological strict criteria. To compare the results to WHO guidelines. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Strict morphological criteria were applied to 300 sperm smears stained according to the Papanicolaou method. Specific sperm defects were described in details. The results were analyzed statistically. RESULTS: The normal sperm morphology was found in 18.54% of cases, which is less than the cut-off value suggested in the WHO guidelines. The lab cut-off value aimed by the 25th percentile was 8%. CONCLUSION: Sperm morphology requires broader multi-center standardization to enable compatible exchange of morphological data and find predictive factors of sperm fertilizing potential.

[The analysis of the sperm parameters in view of its concentration and motility in relation to men's age and occupation]. / Analiza parametrów nasienia ze szczególnym uwzglednieniem koncentracji i ruchliwosci w stosunku do wieku i niektórych zawodów.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate chosen sperm parameters (concentration and progressive motility) in relation to men's age and occupation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective study of laboratory records containing semen analysis results (n = 473, 1995-1997) of patients attending local andrology lab. Linear regression analyses was applied to co-related the age of the patients with the sperm concentration and progressive motility. Mean sperm counts and percentage of motile spermatozoa were compared in the general population vs. car drivers and soldiers. RESULTS: Sperm characteristics were not associated with the age of men. No differences between the general population, drivers and soldiers were found. The values of the mean sperm counts and percentage of motilile spermatozoa were higher than the cut-off values of the WHO. CONCLUSION: The data show no evidence of deterioration in sperm quality in relation to the age and occupation of patients.

[Changes in sperm mitochondria in patients with asthenozoospermia]. / Zmiany we wstawkach plemników pacjentów z astenozoospermia.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate functional and ultrastructural alterations of the spermatozoa midpieces in patients with asthenozoospermia and to find a correlation between the damage of the midpieces and loss of sperm motility. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Routine, morphological assessment of the midpieces stained according to the Papanicolaou method, cytochemical study of the mitochondrial activity using reaction for the diaphorase/ NADH according to the Piasecka method and electron-microscopic investigation of the midpiece structures were performed. RESULTS: The cytochemical reaction for diaphorase/NADH revealed disorders of the mitochondrial activity and subtle and drastic malformations in the spermatozoa midpieces. The unusually thickened midpieces contained the supernumerary mitochondria. In patients with severe asthenozoospermia, the damage of the accessory fibres and axonemal complex located in the midpiece, were obtained also. CONCLUSION: This study indicates that mitochondrial defects are one of the causes that may account for loss of sperm motility in the population of patients.