SDF Test (Sperm DNA Fragmentation)
A male factor is associated with almost 50% of all cases of infertility. SDF remains the most robust and widely utilized tests of sperm DNA damage. Even, male have normal sperm analysis report, the high percentage of DNA fragmentation in sperm cells leads to male infertility, which the usual semen analysis cannot predict.
A sperm DNA fragmentation test uses flow cytometry to measure sperm chromatin stability and the proportion of spermatozoa with fragmented DNA.
Sperm DNA fragmentation refers to a condition where the DNA strands of sperm are either broken or damaged in other forms. It is important that the genetic material in sperm is normal and intact for normal fertilization and successful implantation and pregnancy.
For some reason, if the DNA in the sperm is fragmented then it leads to infertility and failure in IVF treatment. It can occur spontaneously and if such fragmentation accumulates it causes infertility. Such sperms when involved in fertilization, result in the death of embryo and hence, failed conception or miscarriages.
Advantages of a Sperm DNA fragmentation test:
A sperm DNA fragmentation test uses flow cytometry to measure sperm chromatin stability and the proportion of spermatozoa with fragmented DNA.
Sperm DNA fragmentation refers to a condition where the DNA strands of sperm are either broken or damaged in other forms. It is important that the genetic material in sperm is normal and intact for normal fertilization and successful implantation and pregnancy.
For some reason, if the DNA in the sperm is fragmented then it leads to infertility and failure in IVF treatment. It can occur spontaneously and if such fragmentation accumulates it causes infertility. Such sperms when involved in fertilization, result in the death of embryo and hence, failed conception or miscarriages.
Advantages of a Sperm DNA fragmentation test:
- Provides a reliable analysis of sperm DNA integrity which may help to identify men who are at risk of failing to initiate a healthy ongoing pregnancy.
- Sperm DNA integrity may help in the clinical diagnosis, management and treatment of male infertility.
- Provides prognostic value in assessing the outcome of assisted conception treatment.
- Guides the doctors as to whether sperm donation may be appropriate.
- Couples make an informed choice regarding their course of treatment.