Male Infertility Update: Current Knowledge on Etiology, Comorbidities, Diagnosis and Treatment: Preclinical Topics

Dear Colleagues,

Infertility affects up to 12% of all men and represents a growing health problem. To date, its etiology is known in half of cases, while in the other half, it is still obscure. The known causes of infertility can be related to congenital or acquired conditions acting at a pre-testicular, testicular or post-testicular level. Genetic abnormalities account for ~15% of all causes, while epigenetic modifications, oxidative stress, immunological mechanisms and advanced paternal age are increasingly studied as possible co-factors. Systemic diseases, environmental and lifestyle factors and some medications can affect male reproductive health. On the other hand, infertility is nowadays considered as a proxy of general male health, and can lead to psychological and sexual dysfunctions. The recent advances in the understanding of male infertility include efforts in the fields of genetics, sperm biology and male genital tract ultrasound. Conventional and unconventional semen parameters as well as hormonal, metabolic and microbial parameters are used to understand and categorize male infertility etiology and as decisional reference points to define a therapeutic strategy for the infertile man. Medical and surgical therapy can help in specific conditions to improve semen quality, promoting the chances of a natural or medically assisted pregnancy. Personalized medicine and preventive strategies in male infertility are advocated, as well as the evaluation and management of both male and female partners in infertile couples.

You may choose our Joint Special Issue in JCM.

Prof. Dr. Francesco Lotti
Prof. Dr. Mario Maggi
Guest Editors

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