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Fertility Glossary

Necrozoospermia

A sample in which most sperm are dead rather than merely immobile.

Male fertility

Necrozoospermia means a high proportion of the sperm present are not alive. Laboratories distinguish it from poor motility using a vitality test, because live but immobile sperm can sometimes be used for ICSI. Causes include infection, long abstinence, exposure to toxins and problems with sample handling.

Also known as: dead sperm, low vitality

Sources

  • WHO laboratory manual for the examination and processing of human semen

Last reviewed: 8 September 2026. Written by the Antega Editorial Team. General information only — always follow the advice of your own clinic, doctor or pharmacist.

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