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Interpretive Handbook

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Test 81164:
Fructose, Semen or Seminal Plasma

Clinical Information Discusses physiology, pathophysiology, and general clinical aspects, as they relate to a laboratory test

Fructose is produced in the male reproductive tract by the seminal vesicles and is released into the semen during ejaculation. Fructose is the energy source for sperm motility.

Useful For Suggests clinical disorders or settings where the test may be helpful

Fructose testing should be considered for patients with azoospermia and low volume ejaculates to establish the origin of the azoospermia.

Interpretation Provides information to assist in interpretation of the test results

A positive (indicated by color change) fructose is considered normal.

 

A semen specimen that contains no sperm (azoospermia) and is fructose negative may indicate an absence of the seminal vesicles, absence of the vas deferens in the area of the seminal vesicles, or an obstruction at the level of the seminal vesicles.

Cautions Discusses conditions that may cause diagnostic confusion, including improper specimen collection and handling, inappropriate test selection, and interfering substances

This test should be performed in conjunction with a semen analysis to determine semen volume, pH, sperm concentration, motility, and grade of forward progression.

 

Fructose test must be on a separate ejaculate (DO NOT dilute specimen).

Reference Values Describes reference intervals and additional information for interpretation of test results. May include intervals based on age and sex when appropriate. Intervals are Mayo-derived, unless otherwise designated. If an interpretive report is provided, the reference value field will state this.

Positive

Clinical References Provides recommendations for further in-depth reading of a clinical nature

Lipshultz LI, Howards SS: Infertility in the Male. 2nd edition. Edited by DK Marshall.  St. Louis, MO, Mosby-Year Book, Inc., 1991, pp 133-135, 194, 209