Competency information
Details
Identify markers of normal sperm morphology and Live/Dead cells using representative prepared specimens from a range of ejaculates.
Considerations
- The microscopic difference between normal sperm and those with abnormal morphology and the clinical interpretation of these findings.
- Epidemiology of common pathologies (including but not limited to: pin and tapered heads, globozoospermia).
- Principles of good fixation and processing.
- Rationale of the different histological techniques required to demonstrate the different cell types involved in a tissue section.
- How to score sperm morphology according to the Teratozoospermia Index (TZI) system.
- Limitations and uncertainty associated with scoring using the Teratozoospermia Index (TZI) system.
- Assays of whether cells are live/dead including viability / vitality including: different methods for this assessment, differences between methods, associated weaknesses and when a certain assay type may be applicable.
Relevant learning outcomes
| # | Outcome |
|---|---|
| # 1 | Outcome Recognise and interpret the macroscopic and microscopic appearance of semen, and relate to any pathological process determining the potential implications for conception or child-health. |
| # 3 | Outcome Recognise and diagnose the success or failure of male contraceptive interventions in microscopic specimens, including but not necessarily limited to post-vasectomy semen analysis. |
| # 4 | Outcome Recognise and interpret the effects of medical intervention upon semen properties (including but not limited to clearance of pathological organisms; success of vasectomy reversal; recovery from chemo- or radiotherapeutic intervention) |