The Effects of Intratesticular PRP Injection in Men With Azoospermia or Cryptozoospermia

Overview

The study will be conducted in men with a diagnosis of non-obstructive azoospermia or cryptozoospermia after obtaining written informed consent. The diagnosis of azoospermia and cryptozoospermia will be based on two semen analyses performed at least 15 days apart, followed by a documented micro testicular sperm extraction (TESE). A detailed history will be obtained, physical examination and laboratory evaluation will be performed prior to treatment. In physical examination, testicular volumes will be evaluated using an orchiometer. Serum FSH and testosterone values will be determined. PRP will be prepared by centrifugation of approximately 20 ml autologous blood obtained by phlebotomy. PRP (3 ml) will be administered into the seminiferous tubule or interstitial space of each testis. Sperm analysis, testicular volume (using orchiometer), serum FSH and testosterone levels will be reevaluated at 8 weeks post-procedure. Micro TESE will performed on the third month after PRP procedure.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a unique autologous agent derived from blood that is rich in growth factors, cytokines, and hormones; it has been reported to reduce oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species generation and upregulate the expression of various antioxidant enzymes. PRP is used in a variety of clinical applications in cell therapy. Based on World Health Organization guidelines, azoospermia is diagnosed when the absence of sperm is observed in two semen samples. Based on World Health Organization (WHO), cryptozoospermia is diagnosed when spermatozoa cannot be observed in a fresh semen sample; however, it is found after an extended centrifugation and microscopic search. All patients require a clinical work-up with physical examination, endocrine evaluation (follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone) and genetic analysis. Scrotal and transrectal ultrasounds will be performed as indicated. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), with its rich growth factor composition, has proven beneficial in regenerative therapy. The potential therapeutic role of PRP has not been studied in testis for non-obstructive azoospermia and cryptozoospermia. The investigators will investigate sperm parameters in non-obstructive azoospermic and crypotozoospermic patients treated with PRP.