What is Y chromosome microdeletion?

Y chromosome microdeletion consists of studying certain parts of this chromosome. What is so special about the Y chromosome? Well, this chromosome is in charge of differentiating the male from the female gender. It contains the necessary information for the sexual differentiation of both genders. This chromosome contains essential information for the formation of spermatozoa.

Chromosomes are part of a fascinating world that tells us about our development as human beings. They are essential, since they store the information of living beings. Certain regions in the Y chromosome – AZFa, AZFb and AZFc – have been identified to be involved in the production of spermatozoa. One of the causes for a low sperm count or the absence of spermatozoa in ejaculate can be due to the loss or deletion of some of these regions.

Therefore, the study of Y chromosome microdeletion involves analyzing these regions to know whether they are the cause for a low or nonexistent level of spermatozoa. In order to perform this study, a blood sample is obtained from the patient to extract the DNA in his cells; DNA may also be obtained from a buccal swab sample.

When should a Y chromosome microdeletion study be performed?

This study is recommended when there are alterations in the number of spermatozoa. It is specially targeted at patients with oligozoospermia (who have a sperm count under 5 million) or azoospermia (who lack spermatozoa in their ejaculate).

This study is used to detect whether one, or a combination, of some of the AZF regions has been deleted. Identifying the affected region is important, because it is related to how severely sperm production is affected.

Need more information? You may contact us by calling +965 969 38 400 or sending us an e-mail at info@pgdlabs.com. PGD-Labs’ team will inform you about the Y chromosome microdeletion test. Do not hesitate to contact us!