Objective: To evaluate the SQA IIB (Sperm Quality Analyzer; MES-Medical Ele
ctronic Systems, Migdal Haemek, Israel), sperm analyzer that claims to read
the three main sperm indices through algorithmic means and without a micro
scope.
Design: Controlled laboratory study comparing two methods of sperm analysis
.
Setting: Academic environment.
Patient(s): Twenty-six healthy volunteers.
Intervention(s): Samples from intact or manipulated specimens were analyzed
with the standards of the World Health Organization and the SQA IIB.
Main outcome measure(s): Results by the two methods were compared and evalu
ated statistically.
Result(s): Values from the SQA IIB deviated significantly from those obtain
ed by the standard method for all three indices. Disagreement was more than
twofold in 53% and more than threefold in 33% of cases. In specimens with
<8% motility or total lack of motility, the SQA IIB showed zero concentrati
on, zero motility, and no normal forms.
Conclusion(s): Analysis of the three main sperm indices by the SQA IIB is o
f limited accuracy and reliability. The principle of an indirect evaluation
through algorithmic means is inadequate. Because it may furnish misleading
information, which is sometimes crucial for the treated couple, it is not
suitable for screening and cannot be recommended for clinics, sperm banks,
or research studies in andrology.