Sperm DNA fragmentation assay by sperm chromatin dispersion (SCD): correlation between DNA fragmentation and outcome of intracytoplasmic sperm injection.

PURPOSE

The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between sperm DNA fragmentation index (sDFI) and outcome of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

METHODS

All the patients were divided into two groups based on sperm DNA fragmentation analysis by the sperm chromatin dispersion (SCD) method. A total of 237 patients were in the DNA fragmentation normal group (sDFI ≤ 30 %), and 140 patients were in the DNA fragmentation abnormal group (sDFI ≥ 30 %). The relationship of sDFI with the outcome of ICSI was analyzed.

RESULTS

A significant difference in semen parameters was observed between the DNA fragmentation normal and abnormal groups [count, motility and morphology ( < 0.05)]. However, no significant difference was seen between the number of oocytes retrieved and fertilization rates between the two groups, whereas the number of embryos progressed to day 3 and the blastocyst formation rate in the remaining embryos after transfer were significantly more in the DNA fragmentation normal group ( < 0.05). A significant negative correlation was noted between DFI values of more than 30 % and number of pregnancies and deliveries ( < 0.05). A higher DFI was also associated with increased abortion rates.

CONCLUSIONS

In the present study, sperm with DNA fragmentation showed a negative correlation with semen parameters. Further, sperm with damaged DNA have potential adverse effects on embryo progression, clinical pregnancy rate, and ongoing pregnancies.