Sperm Vacuolated Head Count (Per Microscopic Field)
This test examines the shape and integrity of sperm cells, specifically counting those with abnormal vacuolated (empty) heads, which may indicate underlying reproductive health concerns.
["Assessing sperm head abnormalities can help diagnose potential fertility issues or genetic conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 10629-4
- Short code
- Sperm Vacuolated Head NFr Smn
- Synonyms
- Sperm Vacuolated Head NFr Smn
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 135
- Ref high
- 980
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82626
- 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 Is Done
Doctors may order this test if you have trouble getting pregnant, unexplained infertility, or recurrent pregnancy loss. It helps evaluate sperm quality and identify structural defects that could affect fertility.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll need to provide a semen sample after sexual stimulation (typically 2–7 days of abstinence). A healthcare provider will collect the sample, and a lab technician will prepare it for microscopic examination.
How the Test Works
A trained specialist vacuolates (cleanses) sperm cells under a microscope to highlight vacuolated heads. The count and appearance of these defects are recorded for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results focus on the proportion of sperm with vacuolated heads relative to total sperm count. While specific thresholds vary by lab, high counts may suggest genetic disorders (e.g., Klinefelter syndrome) or other reproductive health concerns.
Reference range
NCBI: DHEA-S Male 135-980 µg/dL; Female 30-260 µg/dLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Sperm Morphology Analysis (Vacuolated Heads)
Frequently asked questions
High vacuolated sperm heads may indicate genetic abnormalities, oxidative stress, or chromosomal issues that could impact fertility. This test is often part of a broader evaluation for male infertility.
How long does it take to get results?
Is there any preparation needed beyond semen collection?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy