Relationship between semen parameters, serum InhB, and INSL-3 levels, and the degree of varicocele

Highlights

• Serum INSL-3 in patients with varicocele decreases with the severity of the disease.

• Serum INSL-3 is positively correlated with total sperm count.

• Serum InhB is associated with semen volume, concentration, and total sperm.

• Serum InhB and INSL-3 levels could distinguish the degree of varicocele.

Abstract

Background

Varicocele is an abnormal expansion of the pampininias venous plexus in the scrotum, resulting in impaired sperm production and reduced sperm quality. The exact pathophysiological mechanism leading to varicocele-related infertility has not been fully elucidated. Although treatable, varicocele may lead to male infertility.

Objective

To investigate the relationship between semen parameters, serum InhB and INSL-3 levels, and the degree of varicocele in male patients.

Methods

Serum InhB and INSL-3 were detected. To evaluate the relationship between semen parameters and serum InhB and INSL-3 levels. To evaluate the value of semen parameters and serum InhB and INSL-3 levels in distinguishing disease severity in patients with varicocele.

Results

Serum INSL-3 in patients with varicocele decreased with the severity of the disease. Serum INSL-3 was positively correlated with total sperm count and frequency of normal sperm morphology. There was a weak correlation between serum InhB and semen volume, concentration, and total sperm. Patients with different disease severity were similar within the groups, with partial overlap or similarity between varicocele Grade I and Grade II, and significant differences between Grade III and Grade I and II. Semen volume, concentration, total sperm, normal sperm morphology, and serum InhB and INSL-3 levels could distinguish the degree of varicocele.

Conclusion

Semen parameters and the combination of serum InhB and INSL-3 levels in patients with varicocele are closely related to the severity of the disease. Serum INSL-3 is expected to be a potential biomarker for early clinical intervention.

Keywords
Varicocele; Serum INSL-3; Semen parameters; Disease severity; Hormone