Pus cells in sperm are actually white blood cells (WBCs) present in a man's semen. These immune system cells fight infection. However, a high count suggests a problem.
What do High Pus Cell Counts Mean?
A high number of pus cells in semen, also known as pyospermia, is often linked to male infertility and indicates an infection of the reproductive tract. Several studies confirm this association. For example, one study evaluated the relationship between pus cells and semen parameters in infertile Pakistani men, finding a significant correlation. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23275845/ Another study noted that high pus cell counts were observed in various subclasses of infertile patients. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3523998/
Normal Pus Cell Count & Abnormal Results
The normal range for pus cells in semen varies depending on the lab and the method used. However, generally, 1-5 pus cells per high-power field (hpf) is considered normal. Counts exceeding this range, such as 15, 20, or 30, are indicative of an infection and should be investigated further. https://www.shreeivfclinic.com/videos/causes-and-treatment-of-abnormal-pus-cells/ Some sources suggest a slightly lower normal range of 1-2 pus cells per high-power field. https://www.asianinfertility.com/blog/semen-analysis-test-report
Causes of Increased Pus Cells
Increased pus cells are a sign of inflammation or infection. The specific cause needs to be determined by a doctor.
Importance of Semen Analysis
A semen analysis is crucial for diagnosing infertility issues. The presence and number of pus cells are key components of this analysis. https://www.drmalpani.com/amp/knowledge-center/articles/sperm
