Mumps (immune system disorders) and azoospermia: main causes
In men with mumps (i.e., overactive or malfunctioning immune system), azoospermia, a condition where no sperm are detected in the ejaculate, may be observed. The complete lack of sperm production (non-obstructive form) or the inability of sperm to exit the reproductive tract (obstructive form) occurs for several reasons. The main causes are as follows:
1. Autoimmune reactions
The immune system produces antibodies against the body's own sperm cells. This condition:
- Leads to the appearance of anti-sperm antibodies;
- These antibodies slow down the movement of sperm, damage them, and can sometimes negatively affect sperm production.
The autoimmune factor is one of the relatively rare causes of infertility, and special tests are required to identify it.
2. Inflammation (orchitis)
Inflammation associated with infection or an immune response can damage sperm-producing tissues:
- Orchitis (i.e., inflammation of the testicles) — especially after mumps;
- This inflammation can damage sperm-producing tissues and stop sperm production.
Especially in bilateral orchitis, the sperm-producing function of the testicles can be severely reduced, while unilateral inflammation usually does not lead to complete infertility. For this reason, men who had mumps in childhood or adolescence must inform their andrologist about it. Timely vaccination against mumps plays an important role in preventing this complication.
What to do if azoospermia is detected?
Only a doctor can determine the cause. During an andrologist examination, the following are usually evaluated:
- repeated spermogram (to confirm the result);
- hormonal tests (FSH, LH, testosterone);
- ultrasound of the testicles;
- if necessary, immunological, infection-related, and genetic tests;
- history of past illnesses (e.g., mumps).
Treatment and opportunities for having children
Treatment tactics depend on the cause: in some cases, anti-inflammatory or immunological therapy is used under medical supervision. If sperm production in the testicles is preserved, it is possible to retrieve sperm using the Mikro-TESE method and use them in the ICSI procedure. The general plan is created individually for male infertility. Do not take medication on your own: first determine the cause, then treat.
📨 Source: Telegram: @eko_iksi_clinic