Objective

To investigate the prevalence of herpes simplex virus (HSV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), and Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) in the semen of men with fertility problems.

Design

A descriptive clinical study.

Setting

Outpatient infertility clinic of a private hospital.

Patient(s)

One hundred thirteen men attending an infertility clinic in Athens.

Intervention(s)

Semen samples were collected by masturbation.

Main outcome measure(s)

Detection of HSV, CMV, and EBV in semen by a nested polymerase chain reaction technique. Complete spermogram including sperm count, motility, pH, viscosity, and morphology.

Result(s)

Viral DNA was detected by the nested polymerase chain reaction technique in 64 (56.6%) of 113 semen samples. Specifically, HSV DNA was detected in 56 (49.5%) semen samples, EBV DNA in 19 (16.8%) semen samples, and CMV DNA in 8 (7.1%) semen samples. HSV was significantly related to low sperm count and poor motility. In contrast, CMV and EBV did not show any association with sperm concentration and motility.

Conclusion(s)

Herpes simplex virus seems to play a significant role in male infertility, and its early detection by the nested polymerase chain reaction technique will permit successful antiviral therapy to increase the possibility for fertility restoration and long-term protection of the sperm quality. Finally, the detection of herpes viruses within semen will allow better control of the transmission of these viruses.