
WHO 5th Edition Manual STRICT Morphology Training and Testing
This document includes pages 67 through 95 of the WHO Laboratory Manual for the Examination and Processing of Human Semen FIFTH EDITION. This updated version of the WHO manual does a very good job of showcasing normal vs. abnormal forms including all relevant defects. Dr. Thinus Kruger assessed the slides presented personally and in addition to…
Reason for Assessing WBC Levels on the SQA-V
Thursday, February 6, 2014 BACKGROUND: The SQA-V technology for assessing sperm concentration is based on the principle of spectrophotometry coupled with software filters that eliminate ‘background’ factors that can influence the SQA-V results. OVERVEIW:It is well known that a semen ejaculate contains cells other than spermatozoa (1). These include epithelial cells from the genitourinary tract, as…

Comparison of WHO 4th and 5th Edition Morphology Criteria
Please reference the the following comparison table of WHO 4th and 5th Morphology criteria and Dr. Menkveld’s (the author of publications used by the WHO) presentation at ESHRE SIG-Andrology Campus Meeting, 2009. Comparison of WHO 4th and 5th Morphology Criteria The New 5th WHO Manual Semen Parameter Reference Values – Menkveld Based on this comparison…
Post Vasectomy Testing on the SQA-V – Work Flow Recommendation
BACKGROUND: The WHO 5th edition manual provides recommendations for testing post-vasectomy semen samples. OVERVIEW:Per the WHO 5th edition manual, it is not recommended to centrifuge the post-vasectomy sample if the technician is searching for motile spermatozoa, as centrifugation impacts sperm motility. If no spermatozoa are found in the ejaculate it is recommended to re-assess the…
QwikCheck Test Strip Color Interpretation
Thursday, January 22, 2014 BACKGROUND:QwikCheck™ Test Strips are used to determine the pH and leukocyte level (WBCs) in semen based on comparing the color of the test strip pads to the color chart provided on the bottle label. They are for in vitro diagnostic use only. OVERVEIW:– pH: Normal values for semen pH are generally…

Troubleshooting Blank Operation Screen
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Understanding Liquefaction in Semen Samples
TECHNICAL BULLETIN: VISCOUS AND NON-LIQUEFIED SAMPLES TREATMENT WITH CHYMOTRYPSIN BACKGROUND: A semen sample that presents with delayed liquefaction or high viscosity should be reported during the testing process. These are abnormal parameters and are clinically significant because they may indicate a male accessory gland malfunction (Please see two abstracts below). Nevertheless, delayed liquefaction does not…
Testing PH and WBCs Before Sample Treatment or Dilution
TECHNICAL BULLETIN: USING QWIKCHECK TEST STRIPSThursday, October 31, 2013 BACKGROUND:QwikCheck™ Test Strips are for in vitro diagnostic use for the determination of pH andleukocytes (WBCs) in semen. Test results are determined by comparing the color of thetest patches to the color chart provided on the bottle label. OVERVEIW:Normal values for semen pH are generally ≥…
Manufacturers Recommended Semi-Annual Calibration Confirmation
Re-Issue date/Distribution: Tuesday, October 22nd, 2013/ALL SQA-V Users Subject: It is recommended that twice per year, the SQA-V Gold calibration be checked against the original factory calibration parameters. Although there are acceptable calibration ranges for the SQA-V, the system parameters may be close to the high or low end of the range and proactive maintenance…