Tamoxifen Treatment of Idiopathic Oligozoospermia: Effect on Hcg-Induced Testicular Steroidogenesis and Semen Variables

Abstract

The mechanisms behind the effects of antioestrogens on semen variables and stereoidogenesis in patients with oligozoospermia are unknown. In order to further elucidate this, the steroidogenic response to acute hCG-stimulation was studied in patients with idiopathic oligozoospermia before and during treatment with the antioestrogen Tamoxifen. Also an evaluation of semen variables in these patients was performed. During Tamoxifen treatment serum concentrations of LH, FSH, progesterone, 17α-progesterone, testosterone and oestradiol-17β increased whereas no effect was observed on prolactin and SHBG concentrations. A similar pattern in steroidogenic response to hCG-stimulation was observed before and during Tamoxifen treatment. Sperm density, motility and morphology all improved after Tamoxifen treatment. The present results are discussed in relation to the possible mechanism of action of antioestrogens in patients with oligozoospermia.