MAP test: what is it and what is it needed for?

MAP test - what is it? You can find the answer to this question in the materials of this article. Also from it you will learn about the cases in which such an investigation is assigned, what and how it reveals.

General information

MAP test - what is it and how is it translated? The literal translation of this term sounds like "mixed agglutination reactions". It should be noted that this name is quite informative, because it indicates the method of analysis itself.

What is it used for?

The MAP test is a diagnostic method that is actively used to establish the underlying causes of male infertility. Typically, such an appointment is appointed only after the decoding of the spermogram did not show the presence of obvious deviations in the parameters of this analysis.

What does the MAP test mean? This is a good result for the patient, because he indicates the normal state of reproductive functions of a man. And what if the MAP test is positive? Treatment in this case is simply necessary for the representative of the stronger sex.

In what cases is it appointed?

Spermogram is a simple analysis that shows the composition of the ejaculate, namely how many nonviable or viable, immature or defective spermatozoa in it, as well as the presence of any bacteria or viruses. In most cases, this study is enough. However, there are situations when the ideal indicators of this analysis do not tally with reality, that is, with the absence of pregnancy in a woman whose normal reproductive status is confirmed by a thorough medical examination. In this case, the men are given the MAP test. What is it, knows not every member of the stronger sex. That's why we decided to talk in detail about this study.

MAP test - what is it? We find out together

This study reveals the number of spermatozoa that are covered with antisperm antibodies. The presence of these substances means that the body of a man began to perceive his own sex cells as alien. Thus, he tries to get rid of them with all his might.

Antisperm antibodies are complex proteins that are necessary to counteract "aggressors". They attach to the surface of spermatozoa, thereby limiting their viability and speed.

The causes of the appearance of antibodies

There are quite a few reasons why a man's body begins to attack his own sex cells, namely:

• Various infections;
• Trauma to the genitals (for example, if the barrier between the blood vessels and the seminiferous tubules is broken, resulting in the sperm entering the blood);
• Causes of unclear origin;
• Internal diseases of the genitourinary sphere.

It should also be noted that more recently, new data have appeared that the production of antisperm antibodies is associated with the promiscuous sexual life of a man. Thus, a large number of foreign proteins are perceived by the body as a threat.

What and how does the MAP test reveal?

For this study, two elements are necessary:

• A solution consisting of latex beads that contain the human immunoglobulin ;
• Antiserum to the solution.

To conduct such a test, the patient's sperm are serially mixed with serum and a solution of latex beads. As a result of such actions, spermatozoa with antisperm antibodies begin to attach to the balls. Further all is very simple - the specialists can only calculate the number of spematozoids that are associated with antibodies, and the number of free spermatozoa that are not associated with them. At the end of the test, the data must be compared. If half of the spermatozoa are covered with antisperm antibodies, the chances of paternity are significantly lowered, but not lost until the end. If such antibodies cover more than 51% of spermatozoa, then paternity is impossible (only by IVF).

Cost of the test

After the appointment of the study, each man is interested in where to take the MAP test. As a rule, it is conducted in specialized andrology clinics. The cost of such an investigation can vary significantly in different medical institutions and fluctuate within 500-1500 Russian rubles.

The rules for the analysis and preparation

To conduct such an investigation it is desirable to prepare well, namely:

• Completely eliminate any sexual contacts (2-5 days);
• To stop the use of drugs for a week before the immediate delivery of the analysis;
• Do not visit saunas and baths;
• Refrain from smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages a week before the analysis;
• Avoid stressful situations, exclude physical activity and normalize sleep.

Obtaining semen for the MAP test is done with the help of masturbation. The sterile container where the material is placed should have a tightly fitting lid (preferably screwed). Sperm must be delivered to the laboratory within an hour, keeping it warm. As a rule, the results of the MAP test are known the next day.