DFI Test (SCSA®)
Advanced DFI Test Using SCSA® Technique for Male Fertility Assessment
About SCSA® DFI Test
The SCSA® Test or Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay, is an advanced test for male infertility. Unlike regular semen analysis that only looks at sperm count, movement and shape, the SCSA® Test checks the DNA quality inside the sperm. This helps in understanding male infertility better and planning treatment. The test mainly measures two things: %DFI (DNA Fragmentation Index), which shows how much sperm DNA is damaged and %HDS (High DNA Stainability), which shows sperm with abnormal DNA packaging that could affect fertilization.
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GOLD STANDARD in Sperm DNA Fragmentation Tests
What is the SCSA® Test?
The SCSA® Test or Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay, is an advanced test for male infertility. Unlike regular semen analysis that only looks at sperm count, movement and shape, the SCSA® Test checks the DNA quality inside the sperm.
Read MoreHow the SCSA® Test works?
The SCSA® Test is the most thorough among the sperm DNA fragmentation tests. It’s unique because it measures both the level of DNA fragmentation and the structure of chromatin (DNA + Protein). This test is done with a laser-based device
Read MoreWho is the SCSA® Test for?
Many couples trying to have a baby go through various fertility treatments, which can be time-consuming, emotionally draining and expensive, especially when the treatments don’t work. The SCSA® Test for sperm DNA fragmentation
Read MoreBenefits of the SCSA® Test
The SCSA® Test gives clear information about male reproductive health. It helps choose the most suitable treatment, reducing the emotional and financial burden of trying ineffective methods. It helps answer questions about previous failed fertility treatments.
Read MoreHighlights of SCSA Test
2012
Founded in
32,000+
Tests Completed
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Fertility Centers
57
Cities Covered
SCSA® Test Resources
Sample Reports & Forms
The SCSA® or Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay report format is the same worldwide. The report provides the graphical representation on the…
Publications
The SCSA® Test is based on well-established research and methods. Since the inception of the SCSA® Test over 30 years ago, there have been numerous studies…
SCSA® Test FAQ’s
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Our Male infertility tests
Our Center is a beacon of comprehensive diagnostic services specialising in SCSA® test, which is the GOLD STANDARD in Sperm DNA Fragmentation testing.
Frequently Asked Questions
The DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI) test measures sperm DNA damage, which can affect male fertility. Unlike standard semen analysis, it evaluates sperm DNA integrity. High DFI levels may reduce conception chances, increase miscarriage risk and impact embryo development. This test helps diagnose male infertility and guide treatment options.
IVF specialists recommend the DFI test for couples facing unexplained infertility, recurrent IVF failures or miscarriages. It helps detect hidden sperm DNA damage, predict IVF/ICSI success, assess miscarriage risk and guide fertility treatments like ICSI or sperm selection techniques (MACS, Microfluidics, TESE).
Common causes include oxidative stress, aging, varicocele, lifestyle factors (smoking, alcohol, poor diet, obesity), environmental toxins, infections and frequent heat exposure (hot tubs, laptops on lap).
Maintain a healthy diet, exercise, quit smoking, reduce stress, avoid heat exposure, treat medical conditions (varicocele, infections) and take antioxidants like CoQ10 and omega-3.
DFI testing helps select the best sperm, choose optimal fertility techniques (ICSI, TESE), improve embryo quality and reduce miscarriage rates, leading to higher IVF success.
High DNA fragmentation in sperm can lead to infertility, poor embryo development, recurrent miscarriages and failed IVF or ICSI treatments.
Men with unexplained infertility, repeated IVF/ICSI failures, recurrent pregnancy loss, lifestyle risk factors (smoking, obesity, stress), or exposure to environmental toxins should consider taking the test.
The test requires a semen sample, which is analyzed in a lab to assess the level of sperm DNA damage using specialized techniques.
A DFI score below 15% is considered excellent, 15-25% is good and above 25% indicates a high level of sperm DNA damage, which may impact fertility.
Common causes include oxidative stress, infections, high testicular temperature, poor lifestyle choices (smoking, alcohol, poor diet) and exposure to environmental toxins.
Yes. Lifestyle changes, antioxidants (vitamin C, vitamin E, CoQ10), improved diet, stress management and medical treatments can help reduce sperm DNA fragmentation.
Not necessarily. Some men with high DFI can still conceive naturally, but medical assistance like IVF with ICSI or sperm selection techniques may improve success rates.
Sperm regeneration takes about 3 months, so lifestyle and dietary changes should be followed for at least this period to see improvements.
The test is available at fertility clinics, andrology centers and specialized diagnostic labs. Consult a fertility specialist to determine if the test is right for you.
