Detection of Y Chromosomal Microdeletions in Patients with Spermatogenic Failure

Objective To explore the relationship between Y chromosomal microdeletions and chromosome karyotype,clinical phenotypes and sex hormone levels in patients with spermatogenic failure. Methods SRY gene,ZFY gene and 6 sequence-tagged-sites in AZFa,AZFb and AZFc were detected with multiplex polymerase chain reaction in 42 non-obstructive azoospermic and 39 severe oligozoospermic men. Results Ten cases(12.35%)of microdeletions were found in 81 non-obstructive azoospermic(6 cases)or severe oligozoospermic patients (4 cases). Among the 10 patients with Y chromosomal microdeletions,1 had deletion of AZFa+AZFb+AZFc,2 AZFb+AZFc,1 AZFb and 6 AZFc. Conclusion Microdeletions in the long arm of Y chromosome were associated with spermatogenic failure. Screening for Y chromosomal microdeletions in azoospermic or severe oligozoospermic patients should be of necessity and significance.