Diagnostic Studies: Immunobead Binding Test

It has been shown that some women as well as men may have substances in their systems, which can attach to sperm and immobilize or even kill them. These substances are called antisperm antibodies and are found in the blood and some reproductive organs. The immunobead binding test is designed to look for the presence of these antibodies. In this test, the husband's sperm are placed with specially treated tiny latex beads. If antibodies are present, the beads will become attached to the live moving sperm. This is called a direct test. If the direct test is negative, then the wife's and husband's serum are incubated with the beads and sperm, both husband and donor. This is called an indirect test. If the results show antibodies, immunological infertility is the probable diagnosis. Treatment options will be discussed with you if the test detects antibodies.