MAP test (IgA and IgG) in semen

A study aimed at identifying antisperm antibodies of IgG and IgA classes for the diagnosis of immunological causes of infertility in men.

Antisperm antibodies are specific immunoglobulins directed to various parts of the sperm. They are produced by the immune system in response to contact with sperm antigens in violation of immunological self-tolerance. In healthy men, the presence and normal functioning of the hematotesticular barrier protects the components of the ejaculate (semen) from the effects of your own immune system. When this barrier is violated as a result of bacterial and viral infectious processes, testicular cancer, varicocele, cryptorchidism, trauma, and surgical interventions, an autoimmune reaction is triggered with the formation of specific autoantibodies. In laboratory diagnostics of ejaculate, the detection of specific antisperm antibodies of the IgA and IgG classes is mainly used. Antisperm antibodies of the IgA class are synthesized locally and function more on the surface, determining the state of barrier immunity. They can cover spermatozoa and be found in seminal fluid. The detection of a large number of antibodies of this class is of great clinical importance and indicates a violation of the hematotesticular barrier. IgG class antisperm antibodies come from the blood as a result of damage to the hematotesticular barrier and can persist in the ejaculate for a long time. This test allows you to determine the percentage of normal spermatozoa coated with antibodies to the total number of normal spermatozoa with the same characteristics, but without the presence of antibodies. The MAR test should be performed at normal concentration and motility of the spermatozoa assessed by the spermogram. Morphologically and functionally normal spermatozoa, but having antisperm antibodies on their surface, are not involved in the fertilization process and can cause infertility in men.

Preparation for analysis:

· Sexual abstinence of at least 48 hours, but not more than 7 days, is required before the study.

· The day before the study, it is recommended to avoid heavy physical and mental stress.

· Biomaterial for microbiological studies is given before taking medications (for example, antibacterial, antifungal and chemotherapeutic) or no earlier than 10-12 days after their withdrawal.

· For microbiological studies, the container must be sterile. The container must be purchased on the eve of the analysis at the reception / pick-up points or pharmacy.

· Before collecting ejaculate, urinate, completely emptying the bladder. Then it is necessary to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and conduct a toilet of the genitals with soap and water. The glans penis and foreskin should be dried with a sterile cloth. Collect the sperm in a sterile container with a lid, taking care not to touch the edges of the container and the inner surface of the lid.

· It is forbidden to use a condom to collect sperm!

· Attention! Biomaterial collection for research is not performed in patients under 18 years of age.