azoospermia
Pronunciation: ay-zoh-oh-SPUR-mee-ah
Complete absence of sperm in the ejaculate, requiring careful editorial distinction from oligozoospermia.
Full Definition
Azoospermia is the complete absence of sperm in the ejaculate, affecting approximately 1% of all men and 10-15% of infertile men. This condition can be obstructive (due to blockage in the reproductive tract) or non-obstructive (due to testicular failure or dysfunction). Editors must distinguish this from oligozoospermia, which refers to low sperm count rather than complete absence. The term requires careful attention in clinical documentation as treatment approaches differ significantly between obstructive and non-obstructive types.
Usage
Usage note: Always specify whether obstructive or non-obstructive when context allows.
In Context
- "The patient was diagnosed with obstructive azoospermia following testicular biopsy." — Clinical report
- "Surgical sperm retrieval techniques are indicated for men with non-obstructive azoospermia." — Treatment protocol