Sperm deoxyribonucleic acid fragmentation as assessed by the sperm chromatin dispersion test in assisted reproductive technology programs: results of a large prospective multicenter study

Abstract

Objective: To assess the value of sperm DNA fragmentation, measured by the sperm chromatin dispersion (SCD) test, in predicting fertilization rate, embryo quality, and pregnancy outcome.

Design: Prospective study.

Setting: Four French infertility centers, from January to August 2005.

Patient(s): Six hundred twenty-two couples participating in their first IVF or ICSI program.

Intervention(s): Analysis of DNA fragmentation by the sperm chromatin dispersion test in sperm samples used for IVF or ICSI.

Main outcome measure(s): Correlations and associations between sperm parameters, sperm DNA integrity, and pregnancy outcomes.

Result(s): A statistically significant correlation was observed between sperm DNA fragmentation rate and the following sperm characteristics: sperm motility, morphology, and concentration. We found a statistically significant relationship between sperm DNA fragmentation rate and fertilization rate, and we were able to suggest a threshold sperm DNA fragmentation rate of 18%, above which fragmentation rate was predictive of fertilization rate. Regarding embryo quality, we observed a relationship between sperm DNA fragmentation and embryo quality. No significant relationship was found between sperm DNA fragmentation rate and clinical pregnancies or births.

Conclusion(s): The results of this study confirm the utility of the sperm chromatin dispersion test for assessment of DNA fragmentation.