Authors: Bahadur, G.; Chatterjee, R.

Source: Human Reproduction, Volume 15, Number 6, June 2000 , pp. 1416-1420(5)

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Abstract:

Sperm preservation prior to chemotherapy and radiotherapy is common practice in adult males. Spermatozoa are usually retrieved from an ejaculated sample although there are occasions when testicular tissue is used as the source. These techniques of sperm preservation present minimal ethical objections as the patients give their informed consent. Sperm preservation in children presents practical and ethical dilemmas in that the children cannot always give their informed consent, there are no regulatory guidelines and there is no guarantee that spermatogenesis is occurring. With the rapid advances in reproductive technology and the possible future use of immature germ cells by in-vitro maturation or transplantation, the demand for immature testicular tissue preservation is likely to increase. More information for the parents and oncologists with regard to this subject is needed to allow informed decisions to be made on behalf of the children. These issues are discussed using two cases of children having testicular tissue preservation.

Keywords: boys; counselling; cryopreservation; ethics; testicular tissue

Document Type: Research article

Affiliations: 1: University College London and UCLH Trust, Fertility and Reproductive Medicine Laboratories, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 86–96 Chenies Mews, London WC1E 6HX and

Publication date: 2000-06-01

More about this publication?

• Human Reproduction features full-length, peer-reviewed papers reporting original research, clinical case histories, as well as opinions and debates on topical issues. Papers published cover the scientific and medical aspects of reproductive physiology and pathology, endocrinology, andrology, gonad function, gametogenesis, fertilization, embryo development, implantation, pregnancy, genetics, genetic diagnosis, oncology, infectious disease, surgery, contraception, infertility treatment, psychology, ethics and social issues. The highest scientific and editorial standard is maintained throughout the journal along with a rapid rate of publication.

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