This programme has been designed to educate and assist laboratory scientists and managers on the principles, application and interpretation of diagnostic semen analysis parameters.
In addition, the concept, implementation and utilisation of effective External Quality Assurance and Internal Quality Control of these parameters is explored.
The programme is based on the guidelines set out in the 5th and 6th edition WHO Manuals for the examination and processing of human semen and is designed to provide labs with the information, recommendations and options available so that they are better able to adopt current and validated policies and protocols best suited their scope of work, facilities and resources.
The programme covers the principles of a basic diagnostic semen analysis and the practical recommendations for the measurement of these parameters. Topics include:
- unique characteristics and considerations of semen and semen analysis
- macroscopic and physical assessments such as volume, viscosity, liquefaction and pH
- initial microscopic evaluations including aggregation/agglutination & presence of round cells
- sperm motility and vitality
- sperm concentration
- sperm morphology
- application and interpretation of EQA and IQC including MU
An annual fee will allow individual staff member registration and access to the modules. Once a user has successfully completed all 5 modules, a Certificate of Completion will be issued to them. Completion of the programme has been approved for 10 CPD points under the APACE Programme, Australian Institute of Medical & Clinical Scientists.
Introductory module
The assessment of semen and sources of biological and technical variability
This module introduces the concepts, principles, and purpose of a diagnostic semen analysis. It covers the unique properties of seminal fluid and the challenges faced by labs with regards to its assessment. The three phases of semen analysis from pre-analytical to analytical through to post-analytical are discussed in relation to what is required for each stage and their potential sources of error. The importance and implications of method choice is also discussed in detail.
The learning outcomes for this module are:
- Understanding the unique challenges and requirements related to diagnostic semen analysis
- Understand the importance of method choice in relation to error
- Understanding the requirements and variables for each of the 3 phases of diagnostic semen analysis
Module 2
Initial assessments and measuring sperm motility
This module begins with the considerations and challenges of semen sample collection and handling. Evaluation of the physical characteristics of semen and basic microscopy is covered including assessments of sperm vitality. The presentation then moves on to the principles of sperm motility, factors affecting it and categorisation and measurement of motile forms. Guidelines from both the 5th and 6th edition WHO Manuals are presented and compared.
Learning outcomes for this module are:
- Understanding the properties of seminal fluid including appropriate sample handling
- How to perform initial assessments of physical characteristics – viscosity, liquefaction, pH, volume, appearance
- How to perform initial macroscopic assessments including agglutination/aggregation, presence of round cells etc
- How to perform sperm motility assessment and report results (5 th and 6 th ed)
- Interpretation of results and sources of error
- Sperm vitality testing & interpretation
Module 3
Measuring Sperm Concentration
This module begins with a brief history of sperm counting itself followed by a general review and comparison of different counting chambers. The focus of this presentation is on WHO recommended methodology for the assessment of sperm concentration, sources of error and troubleshooting.
Learning outcomes for this module are:
- Understanding the concept of sperm concentration / total sperm numbers
- Understand the difference in counting chambers in relation to accuracy and precision
- Practical assessment of sperm concentration and calculation of results
- Interpretation and sources of error
- Concept and assessment of an “azoospermic” sample
- Understanding the concept and limitations of CASA
Module 4
Assessment of sperm morphology and interpretation of semen examination results
This module begins with an overview and history of sperm morphology assessment, it’s evolution, challenges and relevance. The concept of what is considered a “normal” sperm according to WHO guidelines is examined in detail as well as discussion on specific structural defects. Smear preparation and stain options are covered before moving onto the practical assessment of stained sperm and calculation of results and identification of potential sources of error. Finally, this module discusses how semen parameters can be interpreted comparing guidelines from both the 5 th and 6 th edition manuals.
Learning outcomes for this module are:
- Understanding the evolution of morphology and the challenges it presents
- The concept of a normal sperm
- Preparing a smear for staining and evaluation of stained sperm
- Calculation and interpretation of results
- Sources of error
- Interpretation of SA results according to both 5 th and 6 th ed WHO manuals
Module 5
EQA and IQC as tools for monitoring accuracy and precision in your laboratory.
This final module looks at the importance, principles and application of External Quality Assurance and Internal Quality Control in the laboratory, specifically related to semen analysis. The concepts of accuracy and precision are discussed as are the different types of errors associated with laboratory measurements, including measurement uncertainty. The goal of this module is to teach labs how to use EQA and IQC correctly and effectively so as to ensure reliability and consistency of results.
Learning outcomes for this module are:
- Understand the concepts and difference between EQA and IQC
- Understand the concepts of accuracy and precision and how they relate to Semen Analysis
- Understand how to interpret EQA results and action them accordingly
- Understand how to implement an IQC programme
- Understand how to interpret IQC results and action them accordingly
- Understand the principle of Measurement Uncertainty and how to apply it
- Understand how to apply the use of Latex bead suspensions to in-house counting chamber validation and staff training exercises