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Test ID: SEMA    
Semen Analysis with WHO Morphology

Method Description Describes how the test is performed and provides a method-specific reference

Semen Analysis:

Semen is incubated for up to 1 hour at body temperature (37 degrees C) to allow the sample to liquefy. The sample is then measured for volume and analyzed microscopically to determine the number of sperm present, the number of moving or motile sperm, and the properties of the sperm motility.(The World Health Organization [WHO] Laboratory Manual for the examination of human semen and sperm-cervical mucus interaction. Fifth edition. Cambridge University Press, 2010)

 

WHO Morphology:

In addition, a drop of semen is spread on a microscope slide. The slide is then processed with stains that give different colors to different parts of the sperm. Using high-power microscopy, the shape and size of at least 100 sperm are compared to a "normal" reference sperm. The semen parameters measured in the WHO morphology include normal oval, head abnormalities, and the presence of other cellular elements.(The World Health Organization [WHO] Laboratory Manual for the examination of human semen and sperm-cervical mucus interaction. Third edition. Cambridge University Press, 1992)

Day(s) and Time(s) Test Performed Outlines the days and times the test is performed. This field reflects the day and time the sample must be in the testing laboratory to begin the testing process and includes any specimen preparation and processing time required before the test is performed. Some tests are listed as continuously performed, which means assays are performed several times during the day.

Monday through Friday; 3 p.m.

Send specimen Monday through Thursday only and not the day before a holiday.

Analytic Time Defines the amount of time it takes the laboratory to setup and perform the test. This is defined in number of days. The shortest interval of time expressed is "same day/1 day," which means the results may be available the same day that the sample is received in the testing laboratory. One day means results are available 1 day after the sample is received in the laboratory.

1 day

Maximum Laboratory Time Defines the maximum time from specimen receipt at Mayo Medical Laboratories until the release of the test result

4 days

Specimen Retention Time Outlines the length of time after testing that a specimen is kept in the laboratory before it is discarded

See Individual Unit Codes

Performing Laboratory Location The location of the laboratory that performs the test

Rochester