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Test ID: SAA    
Sperm Antibody, Indirect, Serum

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

This assay has been developed on the principle that the antigen(s) is a sperm surface protein(s). Such antigens may induce production of antibody in the person himself or his female partner. Direct testing for the presence of antibodies on sperm is accomplished by incubating washed sperm with the immunobeads. The presence of sperm antibodies is indicated by the binding of the polyacrylamide beads to motile sperm. The proportion of sperm bound and the sites of binding are determined by counting a minimum of 100 cells. To accomplish the first antigen-antibody reaction for indirect testing, a sperm specimen is obtained from the individual in question and incubated with fluid of choice (seminal plasma or serum). After an incubation period of 1 hour, the second antibody (antihuman IgG, IgA) bound to polyacrylamide beads is incubated with the first antibody-bound sperm. After a second incubation period of 10 minutes, the sperm are observed under a microscope.(Bronson R, Cooper G, Rosenfeld D: Sperm antibodies: their role in infertility. Fertil Steril 1984;42:171-183)

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.

Wednesday; 8:30 a.m.

Send specimen Monday through Friday

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.

7 days

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

8 days

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

Specimens are discarded the Monday following testing.

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

Rochester