Abstract
A new enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA)-based test (Zer, Jerusalem) has allowed us to show the presence of antisperm antibodies (1:32 to 1:64) in the blood of 14 (33%) of 32 patients undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) under gonadotropin stimulation. Observation of the morphology of fertilization in eight patients with and seven patients without antisperm antibodies has shown a significant association (P ≤ 0.025. Fisher exact probability test) among the cumulus/corona coagulation, the absence of fertilization, and the presence of these antibodies. Cumulusloocyte complex washing and/or enzymatic cumulus removal are considered as elective interventions in the case of antisperm immunity. Each patient entering an IVF-ET program should have the antisperm antibody assay performed as a preliminary screening.
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Pexieder, T., Boillat, E. & Janecek, P. Antisperm antibodies and in vitro fertilization failure. J Assist Reprod Genet 2, 229–232 (1985). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01201802
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01201802