Semen cryopreservation in adolescent and adult men undergoing fertility compromising cancer treatment: A systematic review

Abstract

Treatment-related infertility is a common problem in cancer survivors. Semen cryopreservation is the most established option for male oncological patients wishing to preserve their fertility. We conducted a systematic review to analyse the existing literature regarding the frequency of offers and attempts of semen cryopreservation. We systematically searched MEDLINE and EMBASE for eligible literature without restrictions to language, study type or year of publication. Two authors independently screened and evaluated the citations for eligibility. Studies were included if they reported on pubertal or post-pubertal patients at risk of fertility impairment prior to their cancer therapy. We excluded studies neither reporting the prevalence of offer nor attempt of semen cryopreservation. Possible factors for heterogeneity between the studies were examined by meta-regression analyses. Out of 6,105 returned citations, 42 studies were included in the analysis. The prevalence of offer varied from 8% to 100% and corresponding attempts ranged from 3% to 79%, showing a vast heterogeneity with inconsistent reporting of influencing variables. Measured by the number of scientific publications, the awareness for fertility preservation is increasing while actual prevalences are diverse. In order to identify variables influencing offer and attempt prevalences, consistent reporting of a core set of factors is required.

Keywords: cancer; infertility; semen cryopreservation.