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Questions posted in the
The Urology Forum have been answered by urologists from Henry Ford Health System and by Dr. Kevin Pho.
Question Title: Further question to TraceyForum: The Urology Forum
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| I read your post to Bob. If you did become sterile from a blow to the testicles, would How often do you see cases where a blow to the testicles has caused permanent damage? = Dear Michael I would like to interject about the questions and comments between you and Tracy. Put quite simply, testicular tubules have a protective barrier which keeps it safe from the exposure to the bloodstream. It is called the blood testes barrier and protects the testicle and its haploid ( half the number of chromosomes) sperm from being exposed to the immunologic system of the body. The haploid sperm is seen by the body (diploid) as foreign, and if exposed to each other, the body can mount an immune response against ones own sperm. This is why moderate trauma can result in the production of antisperm antibodies thus resulting in infertility. This is not an absolute scenario. All men who have testicular trauma are not subfertile or necessarily form antisperm antibodies. The semen analysis may be normal, but the sperm do not perform properly. Antisperm antibodies are common. Many men have antisperm antibodies, especially if they have had a vasectomy ( The blood stream is exposed to the sperm.). This does not cause any other recognized problems to date. More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its urban campuses by calling (1 800 653 6568). We can also arrange local accommodations through this number if this is your need. Please bring any physicians’ notes and lab test results that you may be able to obtain. These will help us greatly. This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition.
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