SCSA® Test (Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay) – Definition, Benefits and Applications
1. Definition
SCSA® Test stands for Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay. It’s a laboratory test that measures sperm DNA fragmentation and assesses the integrity of sperm chromatin. This test helps to understand the quality of a man’s sperm beyond just count, shape and movement. It provides key insights into male fertility by revealing if the sperm DNA is stable enough for successful fertilisation and pregnancy.
2. Key Takeaways
- SCSA® Test evaluates sperm DNA quality, not just quantity.
- Even when a semen analysis shows normal results, elevated DNA fragmentation in sperm can still impair a man’s fertility.
- It’s a predictive tool for IVF/ICSI outcomes.
- Only one centre in India, Andrology Center Coimbatore, is authorised to perform the SCSA® Test.
- Helps guide treatment decisions and lifestyle changes for men facing infertility.
3. Why SCSA® Test is Important for Fertility
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Identifies Hidden Fertility Issues
Infertility can affect men whose semen parameters fall within the normal range, suggesting that standard tests may not reveal deeper issues. SCSA® reveals DNA-level problems that routine semen analysis misses.
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Predicts IVF and ICSI Success
Sperm with lower DNA fragmentation rates have better outcomes in IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) and ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection). The test helps doctors choose the right fertility treatment.
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Assists in Miscarriage Analysis
Repeated miscarriages may be due to poor sperm DNA. The SCSA® Test offers insight into whether sperm quality may be contributing to a couple’s fertility problems.
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Tracks Improvement Over Time
Men undergoing lifestyle changes or medical treatments can use the SCSA® Test to track progress in sperm health.
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Supports Informed Decision-Making
Couples can make better-informed choices about conception methods, timelines and medical interventions.
4. Example/User Case
A couple had been trying to conceive for over two years. All of the man’s semen tests came back normal. However, they experienced two unexplained miscarriages. Their fertility expert recommended the SCSA® Test, which revealed high sperm DNA fragmentation in his sample.
He began antioxidant therapy, made lifestyle changes and three months later, his second test showed improved DNA integrity. They went ahead with IVF and welcomed a healthy baby girl nine months later.
5. FAQs
Q1. What does the SCSA® Test measure exactly?
It measures the level of DNA fragmentation and chromatin structure abnormalities in sperm cells.
Q2. Who should consider taking the SCSA® Test?
Men facing unexplained infertility, recurrent miscarriages with their partners, or failed IVF/ICSI attempts.
Q3. How is the test done?
A semen sample is collected and analysed using a specialised flow cytometry process. It’s painless and non-invasive.
Q4. What does a high DNA fragmentation index (DFI) mean?
A high DFI suggests the sperm DNA is damaged, which may affect fertilisation, embryo development or increase miscarriage risk.
Q5. Can lifestyle changes improve DNA fragmentation?
Yes. Diet, exercise, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol and managing stress can help lower DNA damage in sperm.
Q6. Is the SCSA® Test widely available in India?
Andrology Center Coimbatore is currently the only authorised lab in India to carry out the SCSA® Test, however, they partner with 200+ Fertility Centres pan India to offer this test to patients.
6. Call to Action
If you’re experiencing fertility challenges or considering assisted reproductive treatments, don’t overlook the male factor. The SCSA® Test can uncover critical DNA issues that standard tests miss. Contact your fertility specialist or reach out to Andrology Center in Coimbatore, to schedule your test. It could be the missing piece in your fertility journey.
7. Relevant Terms
- Sperm DNA Fragmentation
- Chromatin Integrity
- DFI (DNA Fragmentation Index)
- Oxidative Stress
- Sperm Morphology
- IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation)
- ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)
- Miscarriage
- Antioxidants
- Flow Cytometry
- Sperm Viability
- Reproductive Health
- Male Infertility
- Andrology
- Fertility Assessment
- Lifestyle Modification
- Semen Analysis
