[Semen allergy]

Abstract

A semen allergy is a type I reaction. Reliable figures about incidence/prevalence are not available. Symptoms can be characterized as local and systemic. After exposure to ejaculate, the patient may experience itching and swelling at points of contact, while systemically it may also lead to generalized urticaria with angioedema or higher grade anaphylaxis. As triggering allergens, substances in seminal plasma (SP) have been identified, which can be SP typical or SP atypical. Reactions against spermatozoa have not yet been clearly proven. With regard to SP-typical allergens, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) has been identified, while for SP-atypical allergens, medications or food allergens have been reported, which apparently accumulate in the SP and can then trigger symptoms in women with existing sensitization. The main criteria for the diagnosis of sperm allergy is freedom from symptoms when condoms are used during intercourse. In addition, skin prick tests and determination of allergen-specific IgE are used. In patients with a desire for children, washed, SP-free spermatozoa can be used for insemination. In addition, desensitization may be considered.

Keywords: Allergens; Anaphylaxis; Desensitization, immunologic; Ejaculation; Insemination.