Sperm penetration assay in predicting successful in vitro fertilization. A meta-analysis

B. W. Mol, S. Meijer, S. Yuppa, E. Tan, J. de Vries, P. M. Bossuyt, F. van der Veen

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Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To determine if the performance of the sperm penetration assay (SPA) is useful in predicting successful in vitro fertilization (IVF). METHODS: A meta-analysis was set up to determine the performance of SPA in the prediction of IVF success. We collected data on 647 patients in 24 studies. For each study, a two-by-two table was constructed from the results of SPA and IVF. RESULTS: The sensitivity and specificity of SPA as compared to IVF were heterogeneous. A summary receiver operating characteristics curve could be estimated, showing that the sensitivity of SPA was only 37%, with a specificity of 95%. Subgroup analysis did not explain the lack of homogeneity. CONCLUSION: Since withholding IVF inappropriately has major consequences, performing SPA is insufficient for selecting patients for treatment with IVF-embryo transfer
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)503-508
JournalJournal of reproductive medicine
Volume43
Issue number6
Publication statusPublished - 1998

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