Recommended biochemical parameters for routine semen analysis

Summary The measurement of biochemical markers in human seminal plasma is important in the evaluation of male infertility. We recommend the measurement of one representative substance for each organ involved in seminal fluid production as a routine diagnostic tool: The initial fructose level for seminal vesicular function, citrate or acid phosphatase for the prostate gland and free carnitine as an index of epididymal function. A biochemical analysis of seminal fluid enables us to detect disturbances of the male adnexal organs and may lead to more exact therapy.