azoospermia
Pronunciation: /ay-zoh-oh-SPUR-mee-ah/
The complete absence of sperm in the ejaculate, which may result from cancer treatment or surgical procedures.
Full Definition
Azoospermia is defined as the complete absence of spermatozoa in the ejaculate after examination of centrifuged semen specimens. In urologic oncology, this condition commonly occurs following chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgical procedures such as retroperitoneal lymph node dissection. Azoospermia may be obstructive (due to ductal blockage) or non-obstructive (due to testicular dysfunction). Management includes sperm retrieval techniques and assisted reproductive technologies for patients desiring fertility preservation.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from 'oligozoospermia' (low sperm count) and 'asthenozoospermia' (poor sperm motility).
In Context
- "Post-chemotherapy semen analysis revealed azoospermia, necessitating sperm retrieval procedures." — Fertility specialist consultation
- "The patient developed azoospermia following bilateral RPLND despite nerve-sparing technique." — Reproductive endocrinology note