Necrozoospermia means that a very high proportion of sperm in the ejaculate are dead rather than simply immotile, confirmed using a vitality test. It differs from severe asthenozoospermia, where sperm may be alive but not moving, and the distinction matters because live but immotile sperm can sometimes still be used for ICSI. Possible causes include infection, prolonged abstinence, heat exposure, certain medicines, or problems in the epididymis; sometimes no cause is found. Repeat testing and specialist assessment help guide further options, which may include treating any underlying infection or exploring surgical sperm retrieval in some situations.
Also known as: dead sperm, necrozoospermic
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Sources
- World Health Organization (who.int)
Last reviewed: 9 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.