Epidemiology, Etiopathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Male Infertility-Current Trends and Future Directions: A Narrative Review
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Male infertility has emerged as a growing global health concern, contributing to 20-30% of all infertility cases. It is a multifactorial condition, arising from genetic, endocrine, structural, environmental and lifestyle factors. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on epidemiology, diagnostic advances and therapeutic strategies while highlighting emerging trends and research priorities. Materials and Methods: This review adheres to SANRA guidelines. Literature was sourced from PubMed, Saudi Digital Library, Google Scholar, and PsycINFO using MeSH terms including "Male Infertility," "Diagnosis," "Treatment," and "Epidemiology." Results: Diagnostic evaluation of male infertility includes clinical assessment, advanced semen analysis, imaging techniques, hormonal assays and molecular testing. Despite significant advances in the evaluation of male infertility, idiopathic causes (30-40%) remain challenging. Management strategies include lifestyle modifications, medical therapies including hormones and drugs, surgical interventions, and assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). However, outcomes remain suboptimal in idiopathic and severe cases, particularly regarding sperm DNA fragmentation and environmental exposures. Conclusions: Substantial knowledge gaps exist in male infertility, particularly in idiopathic cases, molecular mechanisms of environmental pollutants, and long-term ART offspring outcomes. Future research priorities include:…
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