A couple has been trying to conceive for 2 years without success. Semen analysis reveals: volume 2.5 mL, concentration 8 million/mL, motility 35% progressive, normal morphology 2% (Kruger strict criteria). This pattern is best described as:

• A Oligozoospermia only
• B Asthenoteratozoospermia
• C Normal semen — unexplained infertility
• D Oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT syndrome) ✓

Explanation

WHO 2021 reference limits for semen parameters: concentration ≥16 million/mL, progressive motility ≥30%, morphology (Kruger strict) ≥4%. This man has all three below the lower reference limit: oligozoospermia (8 million/mL < 16), asthenozoospermia (35% is above 30% — borderline, but morphology is abnormal), and teratozoospermia (2% < 4%). With concentration clearly low and morphology below normal, OAT syndrome is the diagnosis. IVF-ICSI is the treatment of choice for severe OAT.

Reference: Shaw's Textbook of Gynaecology, 17th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.