Influence of administration of cyclophosphamide on canine semen quality.

摘要

The aim of the research was to determine the influence of cyclophosphamide administered for cancer treatment on some semen quality parameters of dogs. Twelve mixed breed male dogs, aged 5 to 10 years old and weighing 15 and 36 kg, were used. The animals were in good physical condition and showed normal libido. In the experimental group (n=6), after surgical removal of the tumour, cyclophosphamide at 50 mg/m2 per body surface was given orally for 21 days. The control group consisted of 6 clinically healthy dogs. Clinical examination was performed in both groups daily, with particular attention to the functioning of the genital system. Semen evaluation was performed twice at two-week intervals before administration of the medication, three times at seven-day intervals during the treatment and twice at two-week intervals after discontinuation of the drug. Moreover, histopathological examination of the testicles was performed randomly in both groups during treatment (on 12th day) and about 50 days after the treatment was discontinued. Each group of animals was studied and observed for at least 10 weeks. Administration of cyclophosphamide resulted to an increased percentage of dead spermatozoa, decreased spermatozoon concentration, drop in the number of spermatozoa with correct functions of the cell membrane and an increase in the percentage of spermatozoa with primary and secondary abnormalities (defects). Histopathological examination confirmed slight damage to the spermatogenic epithelium that resulted in the deterioration of semen quality..