Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease which primarily affects women during their reproductive years. Men also develop lupus. For men with systemic lupus erythematosus, future fertility is a concern. There have been no studies to date conducted on testes function as it relates to sperm abnormality in male lupus patients. Sperm abnormalities can affect sperm count, quality, and stucture. In a study which appears in the July 2007 issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism, gonad function in male lupus patients was examined and researchers determined that males with lupus have a high frequency of sperm abnormalities associated with reduced testicular volume.
Additionally, the study identified intravenous treatment with cyclophosphamide (Cytoxan) as the major factor in permanent damage to the testes. There were 35 men with lupus in the study and 35 healthy controls. The 70 men had an exam of the genitalia, semen analysis for sperm count, shape and structure (morphology), and movement (motility). Males with lupus also had analysis of antisperm antibodies, testicular ultrasound, and hormone evaluation. Results revealed that males with lupus had:
- lower testicular volumes in both testes
- lower percentage of normally formed sperm
- lower sperm counts, motility, and sperm volume
Researchers concluded that since it is not possible to predict when a male with lupus will become infertile, abnormal testicular function after about 5 years of I.V. cyclophosphamide, combined with elevated FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and lower testicular volumes, suggests the need for freezing sperm (cryopreservation) for male lupus patients following that treatment option.
More Related Resources:
- Guide to Lupus
- Lupus Screening Quiz
- Fast Facts About Lupus
- Test Your Knowledge: Lupus
- 10 Things You Should Know About Lupus
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