: Sperm Midpiece Evaluation, Semen
: This test examines the midpiece of sperm cells in a semen sample, the section of the sperm that supplies energy for movement. It is part of a detailed semen analysis used in fertility evaluation.
[": Midpiece evaluation helps assess sperm structure and energy-producing capacity, which can affect sperm motility and fertility potential."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 38557-5
- Short code
- Sperm.midpiece w IgA NFr Smn IBT
- Synonyms
- Sperm.midpiece w IgA NFr Smn 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
: What This Test Examines
: Sperm cells have three main parts: a head (containing genetic material), a midpiece (packed with energy-producing structures called mitochondria), and a tail (which propels the sperm). This evaluation focuses on the midpiece, looking at its shape, size, and structure to see whether it appears normal.
: Why the Midpiece Matters
: The midpiece generates the energy the tail needs to move the sperm forward. If the midpiece is abnormal in structure, sperm may have trouble swimming effectively, which can reduce the chance of reaching and fertilizing an egg.
: How the Sample Is Collected
: A semen sample is typically collected privately at the clinic or at home, following instructions from your provider about abstinence time beforehand. The sample is then examined in the laboratory, often as part of a broader semen analysis that includes counts, motility, and morphology.
: What Abnormal Findings Can Mean
: Midpiece abnormalities are described as structural defects rather than given as a single pass/fail number. When such defects are noted, they may be considered alongside other semen analysis results and your overall health history to understand possible effects on fertility.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
: Midpiece evaluation provides information about sperm structural quality and energy capacity that complements standard semen analysis parameters such as concentration, motility, and morphology. Abnormalities in the midpiece can be associated with reduced sperm function and are interpreted in the context of the full fertility workup; results should be discussed with a fertility specialist or urologist to determine whether further testing or treatment is appropriate.
Short name
: NONE
Frequently asked questions
: Is this the same as a routine semen analysis?
: Does an abnormal midpiece result mean I cannot father a child?
: Do I need to prepare in any special way for this test?
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