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Blocked Seminiferous Tubules

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Blocked Seminiferous Tubules

Blocked Seminiferous Tubules, also known as Vas deferens, produces, maintains, and stores the sperms. They are long and muscular in structure and travel from the epididymis into the pelvic cavity. These tubules consist of columnar Sertoli cells surrounded by spermatogenic cells.

Located within the testes, these Sertoli cells act as the nutrient bank for the immature sperm cells. They support and nourish the sperm cells until they are mature and prepared for ejaculation.

Blocked Seminiferous Tubules Causes

The reason for blocked seminiferous tubules include:

  • Infections
    Seminiferous Tubules are prone to infections. The infections can be sexually transmitted or occur naturally due to bacteria. If the infection is left untreated, it can lead to permanent blockage of the tubules.
  • Tumor
    Tumor of the vas deferens or other adjacent organs can compress the seminiferous tubules causing blockage of sperms. In other cases, trauma or injury from surgery can also result in fewer sperms
  • Inflammation
    Inflammation is another reason for blocked seminiferous tubules. Inflammation may be caused by a variety of pathogenic bacteria causing severe obstruction of the seminiferous tubules.
  • Rare Genetic Conditions
    Genetic conditions can also block seminiferous tubules. Congenital abnormalities can lead to functional and structural anomalies in the seminiferous tubules or vas deferens, resulting in less semen and azoospermia or infertility.

SOI Expertise

There are a lot of indications for blocked ejaculatory ducts and blocked seminiferous tubules. A semen analysis can help identify them better than any other exam. Blocked Seminiferous Tubules does not mean infertility is untreatable.

With the right diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to correct the problem. Contact SOI today for more information on treatment options or schedule an appointment to consult with our experts.

FAQ’s

Q. What are some common indicators for sperm blockage?

The common symptoms for sperm blockage include difficulties in ejaculation, low sperm count, reduced sexual desire, and pain or swelling in the testicle area.

Q. What is a healthy sperm count?

The normal sperm count range is from 15 million sperm to more than 200 million sperm per milliliter (mL) of semen. A sperm count of less than 15 million sperm per milliliter is considered low and can cause difficulty in conceiving.

Q. Can obstruction of seminiferous tubules be treated surgically?

Yes, obstruction of the seminiferous tubule can be treated surgically. Transurethral resection of ejaculatory duct (TURED) surgery, microsurgical vasovasostomy, and vasoepididymostomy, and can be performed to treat blocked seminiferous tubules.

Q. Is there a non-surgical treatment for blocked seminiferous tubules?

Yes, blocked seminiferous tubules can be treated non-surgically too. In the case of nonobstructive azoospermia, sperm can be retrieved from testicle using a tiny needle. The sample can be later frozen and fertilized using in vitro fertilization (IVF).