Morphology and the sperm penetration assay.
OBJECTIVE
To assess the ability of Kruger morphology to predict the outcome of the sperm penetration assay (SPA).


METHODS
A retrospective review using univariate and multivariate analysis, t tests, and logistic regression was performed to examine the correlation between Kruger morphology and the optimized zona-free hamster egg sperm penetration assay (O-HESPA).


METHODS
University hospital.


METHODS
One hundred fifteen private-practice patients who underwent semen analysis, including Kruger morphology and O-HESPA, as part of an infertility evaluation between 1997-2000 were retrospectively reviewed.


METHODS
Retrospective analysis of the sperm penetration assay.


METHODS
Univariate and multivariate analysis, Student's t test, and logistic regression were performed to analyze Kruger morphology, count, and viability and their relationship to SCI result.


RESULTS
Univariate analysis demonstrated a statistically significant correlation between SCI and sperm count, viability, and Kruger morphology. Multivariate analysis demonstrated statistically significant correlations between SCI and count and viability. There was no correlation between Kruger morphology and SCI. Logistic regression was performed on the SCI results, using count, Kruger morphology, and viability. Sperm count was found to be the only variable that was statistically significant with respect to SCI results.


CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrated that Kruger morphology assessment cannot be used to predict the results of SCI or replace it in the management of the infertile couple.
Zahalsky
Michael P
MP
Department of Urology, Beth Israel Medical Center, New York, New York 10003, USA.
Zoltan
Edward
E
Medley
Nadine
N
Nagler
Harris M
HM
D000704:Analysis of Variance; D000818:Animals; D006224:Cricetinae; D005260:Female; D005307:Fertilization in Vitro; D006801:Humans; D016015:Logistic Models; D008297:Male; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013075:Sperm Capacitation; D013076:Sperm Count; D013081:Sperm Motility; D013084:Sperm-Ovum Interactions; D013094:Spermatozoa / Q000002:abnormalities*