HomeMerck SeronoContact UsGlossaryReferencesSearchSite Guide
			Concern Treatment Pregnancy Experiences Treatment The Doctor's Visit Couples Evaluation Female Specialist Tests Male Specialist Tests Culture of Semen FSH, LH & Testosterone Karyotyping Medical History Postcoital Semen Analysis Sperm Antibodies Sperm Penetration Testicular Biopsy Personalised Treatment Female Treatments Male Treatments Implications of Treatment Enhance Your Well-being Questions to Ask Your Doctor Treatment FAQ Contact Your Doctor		Testicular biopsy Testicular biopsy involves the removal of a small piece of testicular tissue to provide a sample for microscopic evaluation. Examination of tissue allows for evaluation of semineferous and interstitial Leydig cells (these are the cells that produce the hormone testosterone in the tissue surrounding the tubules where sperm is produced). Normal biopsy results indicate that diminished sperm counts or absent sperm in the semen analysis is due to an obstruction or absence of ducts leading from the testicle to the prostate. Abnormalities in the tissue obtained at biopsy can indicate: The absence of cells needed to produce sperm maturity  Hypospermatogenesis (the production of abnormally low numbers of sperm)  Germinal cell aplasia (lack of germ cells that enable sperm production)  Evidence of previous testicular infection  Abnormalities of Leydig cells
			© 2003-2008 Merck Serono S.A. Please read our Legal Statement. US residents should consult the Serono, Inc. fertility website at www.fertilitylifelines.com Last updated: 14/05/2008