Sperm Immunoglobulin Analysis (Quantitative and Qualitative)
This test measures the presence and levels of antibodies (like IgG, IgA, and IgM) in your sperm, which can affect fertility. It helps identify if immune factors may be contributing to infertility.
["This test checks for sperm antibodies that could block pregnancy by affecting sperm function or viability."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 106122-5
- Short code
- Sperm IgA Spec Ql IBT
- Synonyms
- Sperm IgA Spec Ql IBT
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- immunobead
- CPT
- 82784
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you or your partner have unexplained infertility, recurrent miscarriages, or if sperm analysis shows abnormal motility or morphology. It can also be part of a broader evaluation for male infertility when other tests don’t explain the issue.
What the Test Measures
The test detects specific types of antibodies (IgG, IgA, IgM) in your sperm, which can be measured either qualitatively (presence/absence) or quantitatively (exact concentration). These antibodies may bind to sperm proteins, reducing sperm function or survival.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A semen sample is collected through masturbation, typically after 2–5 days of abstinence. The sample is then processed to separate sperm from other fluids, and antibodies are analyzed using specialized immunoassay techniques.
What the Results Mean
Positive results indicate the presence of sperm antibodies, which may interfere with fertilization. The exact interpretation depends on the type of antibody detected and clinical context (e.g., whether you’ve had previous pregnancies or fertility treatments).
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High levels of sperm antibodies can impair sperm motility, reduce sperm count, or cause immune-mediated damage to sperm. This can be particularly relevant in couples undergoing assisted reproductive technologies (ART) or those with recurrent pregnancy loss. Treatment may include immune-modulating therapies, sperm washing, or assisted reproductive techniques to bypass antibody interference.
Short name
Sperm Immunoglobulin Test
Frequently asked questions
How does this test differ from a general fertility evaluation?
What happens if my sperm antibody test is positive?
Can lifestyle changes help with sperm antibody issues?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy