Sperm DNA Fragmentation Index in Infertility Patients vs Normal Individuals: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Infertility is a major problem among married couples. The male factor contributes to around 30-40% of all cases of infertility. With advancing age, reducing sperm count may magnify the problem. The awareness of qualitative change along with quantity is important for people seeking advice in infertility.

Aim: To find the prevalence of sperm Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) fragmentation with Sperm Chromatin Dispersion (SCD) test.

Materials and Methods: The present study was prospective cross-sectional study which was carried out on semen sample given for routine check-up in department during the period from August 2017 to August 2018. A total of 180 couples, including 88 infertile couples and 92 couples with known fertility were enrolled in the study. Sperm Count and sperm DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI) were calculated and determined by SCD test by kit method. Comparison between groups was done according to distribution of data using Mann-Whitney rank-sum (two tailed) statistical test.

Results: Among 180 subjects, (88 cases and 92 control) no significant difference in the age was found. The sperm count was not significantly different in cases (group of men of infertile couple) and controls (group of men of proven fertility). The highest value for DFI was 27% in controls and 97% in cases. Statistically significant difference was found in DFI (p=0.008) in both groups. DFI and sperm count showed negative correlation both in cases and controls with a correlation coefficient 0.213 (p-value <0.001) and 0.754 (p-value <0.005) respectively. A significant difference was observed in the median value of sperm DFI of men of infertile couple as compared to men of fertile couple.

Conclusion: On comparing, significant difference was observed in the median value of sperm DFI in infertile couple. Sperm DFI at cut-off value 27% has higher diagnostic significance. SCD method is simple, easiest and standard tool to assess DFI.