Sperm concentrations and quality in beta-thalassaemia major.

We report semen analyses in eight patients with beta-thalassaemia major, with poor results in all but the youngest. The causation is multi-factorial, with iron deposition in the pituitary gland resulting from life-long dependence on blood transfusions being a major factor. We speculate on other contributing causes, but further research is required to elucidate these. Improving haematological care means that these men are increasingly surviving to adult life. Relevant techniques to enable them to achieve their desire for fatherhood are considered.