MAR test - what is it? You can find the answer to this question in the materials of this article. Also from it you will learn about in which cases such a study is prescribed, what and how it reveals.
General information
MAR test - what is it and how is it translated? The literal translation of the term sounds like “mixed agglutination reactions”. It should be noted that such a name is quite informative, because it indicates the method of analysis itself.
What is it used for?
The MAP test is a diagnostic method that is actively used to establish the existing causes of male infertility. As a rule, such a study is prescribed only after decoding of the spermogram did not show the presence of obvious deviations in the parameters of this analysis.
What does the MAP test mean negative? This is a good result for the patient, because he indicates the normal state of the reproductive functions of a man. But what if the MAP test is positive? Treatment in this case is simply necessary for the representative of the stronger sex.
In what cases is appointed?
A spermogram is a simple analysis that shows the composition of the ejaculate, namely how many non-viable or viable, immature or defective spermatozoa are in it, as well as the presence of any bacteria or viruses. In most cases, this study is sufficient. However, there are situations when the ideal indicators of this analysis do not fit in with reality, that is, with the absence of pregnancy in a woman whose normal reproductive condition is confirmed by a thorough medical examination. In this case, the men are prescribed an MAP test. What is this, not every representative of the stronger sex knows. That is why we decided to talk in detail about this study.
MAR test - what is it? We find out together
This study identifies the number of sperm that are coated with antisperm antibodies. The presence of these substances means that the man’s body began to perceive his own sex cells as foreign. Thus, he is doing his best to get rid of them.
Antisperm antibodies are complex proteins that are necessary to counter “aggressors”. They attach to the surface of the sperm, thereby limiting their viability and speed.
Reasons for the appearance of antibodies
There are quite a few reasons why a man’s body begins to attack its own germ cells, namely:
- various infections;
- genital injuries (for example, if the barrier between the blood vessels and seminiferous tubules is broken, as a result of which sperm enters the bloodstream);
- causes of unclear origin;
- genitourinary diseases
It should also be noted that recently there has been new evidence that the production of antisperm antibodies is associated with the promiscuous sexual life of men. Thus, a large number of foreign proteins is perceived by the body as a threat.
What and how does the MAP test reveal?
For this study, two elements are needed:
- a solution consisting of latex balls that contain a human immunoglobulin ;
- antiserum to the solution.
To conduct such a test, the patient's semen is alternately mixed with serum and a solution of latex beads. As a result of such actions, sperm with antisperm antibodies begin to attach to the balls. Further, everything is very simple - specialists can only calculate the number of spermatozoa that are associated with antibodies, and the number of free spermatozoa that are not associated with them. At the end of the test, data must be matched. If half of the sperm is covered with antisperm antibodies, then the chances of paternity are significantly reduced, but not completely lost. If such antibodies cover more than 51% of sperm, then paternity is impossible (only by IVF).
Test cost
After the appointment of the study, each man is interested in where to pass the MAP test analysis. As a rule, it is carried out in specialized andrology clinics. The cost of such a study can vary significantly in different medical institutions and range from 500-1500 Russian rubles.
Rules for passing analysis and preparation
It is advisable to prepare well for such a study, namely:
- completely exclude any sexual contacts (2-5 days);
- stop using the medicine one week before the immediate test;
- Do not go to saunas and baths;
- quit smoking and drinking alcohol a week before analysis;
- avoid stressful situations, exclude physical activity and normalize sleep.
Sperm production for the MAP test is carried out using masturbation. The sterile container where the material is placed must have a tight-fitting lid (preferably screwed on). Sperm must be delivered to the laboratory within an hour, keeping it warm. As a rule, the results of the MAP test are known the very next day.