Low incidence of sperm antibodies in men with congenital absence of the vas deferens

Abstract

The incidence of antisperm antibodies in serum and seminal fluid of 27 azoospermic men with congenital absence of the vas deferens is evaluated. The presence of antisperm antibodies was assessed using the immunobead test, the agglutination test, and immobilization test. Five patients with vasovasostomy or vasoepididymostomy attempts were included in the study and tested for the presence of antisperm antibodies. Contrary to a previous report, a low incidence (11%) of antisperm antibodies has been found in patients with congenital absence of the vas. In agreement with previous studies, in five patients who had failed vasoepididymostomy or vasovasostomy, a high incidence (71%) of antisperm antibodies was found.