Chronic Epididymitis and Male Infertility

Chronic inflammatory conditions of the genital tract are fre-quently encountered in male fertility problems, but are still unsatisfactorily recognized due to inappropriate definitions and inconsistent diagnostic criteria. The most popular term used for description of inflammation and infection of the genital tract is MAGI (male accessory gland infection). In asymptomatic patients the diagnosis is primarily based on leukocytospermia (i.e., more than 1 million peroxidase-postive leukocytes per ml ejaculate). However, in many cases of chronic epididymitis, the number of leukocytes in the ejaculate is below the threshold of 106 per ml; therefore, consideration of additional markers of inflammation such as granulocyte elastase, pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g. interleukin-6 or 8), or reactive oxygen species,is helpful for establishing the diagnosis. With regard to the im-pact on male reproductive function, epididymitis seems to be more relevant than inflammation/infection of the prostate and/ or seminal vesicles. Chronic epididymitis may result in reduced sperm number and motility. In addition, further sperm func-tions, in particular DNA-integrity, may be affected.

Keywords:

Chronic Epididymitis , Leukocytospermia , Male Accessory Gland Infection , Male Infertility