Evaluation of Kisspeptin Level in Non Obstructive Azoospermic Patients

Abstract
Background: Non-obstructive azoospermia is characterized by the complete absence of sperm in the ejaculate due to testicular failure. One of the genetic causes of non-obstructive azoospermia is the mutations in kisspeptin hormone and the kisspeptin hormone receptor (Kiss1r) genes. The level of kisspeptin hormone has been investigated in patients with non-obstructive azoospermia.
Aim of Study: The aim of the study was to evaluate the level of kisspeptin hormone (KISS1) in the serum of non-obstructive azoospermic males and its relation to fertility hormones (Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Testosterone and Prolactin).
Patients and Methods: This case control study was done from August 2017 to August 2018 & included 25 non-obstructive azoospermic patients & 25 cases of age matched healthy fertile control subjects. After full history taking and general and local examination, Kisspeptin level was measured using ELISA. Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH), Testosterone (T) and Prolactin hormone (PRL) were also measured.
Results: The mean value of kisspeptin hormone was significantly lower in cases (6.30±2.07ng/ml) than controls (36.70±9.64ng/ml). The patients had significant high level of FSH (p-value <0.001), high level of LH (p-value=0.001) and low level of Testosterone (p-value=0.022). No correlation was found between plasma kisspeptin levels and (FSH, LH, Testosterone & Prolactin).
Conclusion: Kisspeptin level is lower in non-obstructive azoospermic infertile males than the fertile controls, so it might be used as a diagnostic tool for infertility and treatment of infertility disorders in patients proved to have a low level of kisspeptin hormone.