The objectives of the study, are to describe detection of SARS-CoV-2 in the semen of COVID-19 positive patients, the duration of positive semen and to investigate the impact on semen quality, thereby providing insights into the early impact on male reproductive function.
SARS-CoV-2 (severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2), a novel coronavirus reported in
late December 2019 in Wuhan, China, has spread world-wide with over 1,000,000 coronavirus
disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases reported. New developments in molecular virology and
immunobiology of SARS-CoV-2, improve our understanding about COVID-19 prevention, management,
and possible long-term effects. Although viral transmission occurs predominantly through
respiratory droplets, SARS-CoV-2 has been isolated in blood samples and feces from COVID-19
patients, raising questions about viral shedding in other bodily fluids, including semen, as
well as alternative modes of transmission.
The objectives are to describe detection of SARS-CoV-2 in the semen of COVID-19 positive
patients, the duration of positive semen and to investigate the impact on semen quality,
thereby providing insights into the early impact on male reproductive function.
Diagnostic Test: Ejaculated semen sample
SARS-CoV-2 positive men will be asked to give an ejaculated semen sample, within the seven days after positive testing. Semen samples will be performed every 7 days, until 2 semen PCR tests are negative and will be retested after 3 months.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Male
- PCR on nasopharyngeal swab positive for SARS-CoV-2
- Age: ≥ 18y - ≤ 50y
- Signed informed consent
- When undergoing ART treatment: ICSI treatment
Exclusion Criteria:
- Negative test of SARS-CoV-2 on nasopharyngeal swab sample
- History of immunosuppression
- Impossibility to deliver a semen sample at UZ Brussel on a weekly base
- When undergoing ART treatment: IVF treatment
UZ Brussel
Brussels, Belgium
Investigator: valerie uvin, md
Contact: 486073292
valerieuvin@hotmail.com
Michael De Brucker, MD PHD
+32494455084
michaeldebrucker@gmail.com
Valerie Uvin, MD
valerieuvin@hotmail.com
Michael De Brucker, MD PHD, Principal Investigator
UZ Brussels