[Semen analysis: spermiogram according to WHO 2010 criteria]

Abstract

Semen analysis plays a key role in the diagnostics of male infertility. Semen analysis has to be performed according to World Health Organisation (WHO) criteria. The updated version of the WHO manual was completed at the end of 2009 and published in 2010. Standard procedures in semen analysis include evaluation of sperm concentration, motility, morphology and vitality. In this new version particular attention has been paid to internal and external quality control, helping to identify and correct incidental and systematic errors both in routine analysis as well as in the field of research. The new manual describes all laboratory solutions, procedures and calculation formulas, and focuses on the definition of cryptozoospermia or azoospermia. A chapter concerning cryopreservation of spermatozoa has been newly integrated. The following overview presents the most important aspects of the updated WHO manual.