Test for the Presence or Absence of Leukocytes in Ejaculate

This is a quick and simple test used when an increased number of round cells is observed in the ejaculate. If round cells exceed the normal level (1 million/ml), a test must be performed to determine the presence of leukocytes (white blood cells). This test stains leukocytes with positive peroxidase activity, distinguishing them from other round cells.

Leukocytes are naturally present in seminal fluid, but an elevated count (above 1 million/ml), known as leukocytospermia, indicates inflammation or infection in the male reproductive tract, such as a microbiological infection or varicocele. High leukocyte levels reduce semen volume, lower sperm count and motility, worsen morphology, and increase DNA damage due to oxidative stress, ultimately decreasing fertilization potential.