Peroxidase Test for Leukocytes in Semen
A peroxidase test in semen, also known as the Endtz test, helps identify and estimate peroxidase-positive white blood cells in a semen sample.
The test can provide useful information when increased round cells or inflammation are suspected, helping your doctor determine whether leukocytes may be contributing to the semen findings.
Quick Test Overview
What Is a Peroxidase Test in Semen?
A semen sample can contain different types of round cells.
Some are white blood cells (leukocytes), while others may be immature reproductive cells. These cells can look similar during a routine microscopic examination.
The peroxidase test uses the peroxidase activity found mainly in certain white blood cells to help identify and estimate peroxidase-positive leukocytes in the semen sample.
This makes the test useful when further clarification of round cells is needed.
What Is the Endtz Test?
The Endtz test is a peroxidase-based method used to assess leukocytes in semen.
The terms Endtz test and peroxidase test are therefore closely related and may be used when investigating increased white blood cells in a semen sample.
The test does not detect every type of white blood cell equally. Its main role is to identify peroxidase-positive leukocytes, particularly granulocytes.
When May a Peroxidase Test Be Requested?
Your doctor may request a semen leukocyte test when additional information is needed about round cells or possible inflammation in semen.
It may be considered when:
- Increased round cells are seen in a semen sample.
- White blood cells are suspected in semen.
- Sperm agglutination or other inflammatory findings are present.
- A previous semen assessment requires further clarification.
- Fertility findings raise concern about inflammation in the male reproductive tract.
The result is interpreted together with other semen findings and your medical history.
Why Is It Important to Distinguish Leukocytes from Other Round Cells?
Not every round cell seen in semen is a white blood cell.
White Blood Cells
Increased leukocytes may be associated with inflammation, infection or other reproductive tract factors.
Immature Germ Cells
Some round cells are immature reproductive cells and have a different clinical meaning from leukocytes.
A peroxidase-based test helps clarify whether a significant proportion of the round cells are peroxidase-positive leukocytes, providing more specific information than simply reporting “round cells.”
This can help your doctor decide whether any further investigation is needed.
Does Leukocytospermia Mean There Is an Infection?
Not always.
An increased number of leukocytes in semen may be associated with inflammation, infection or other factors, but leukocytospermia alone does not identify the cause.
If a bacterial infection is suspected, your doctor may request a separate semen culture to look for bacterial growth.
A peroxidase test and a semen culture provide different information and may be used together when clinically appropriate.
How Is the Peroxidase Test Performed?
The test requires a semen sample collected according to the laboratory's instructions.
The sample is treated using the peroxidase method so that peroxidase-positive leukocytes can be identified and assessed.
No blood sample is required.
How to Prepare for the Test
No fasting is required.
Before collecting the sample:
- Follow the semen collection instructions provided by the laboratory.
- Use the specimen container provided or approved for the test.
- Avoid ordinary lubricants during collection.
- Try to collect the complete ejaculate.
- Tell the laboratory team if any part of the sample was lost.
If other semen tests are being performed at the same appointment, follow any additional preparation instructions provided.
How to Collect the Semen Sample
Collect the sample directly into the appropriate specimen container without touching the inside of the container or lid.
Try to collect the entire ejaculate, as incomplete collection may affect semen-related measurements.
If any portion of the sample is missed, tell the laboratory team before testing.
Understanding Your Peroxidase Test Result
Your report will show the finding according to the laboratory method used.
When Few Peroxidase-Positive Leukocytes Are Found
This indicates that only a small number of the cells identified by the method are peroxidase-positive leukocytes.
When Peroxidase-Positive Leukocytes Are Increased
An increased finding may support the presence of leukocytospermia.
An increased result may be considered alongside:
- Other semen findings.
- Symptoms.
- Medical history.
- Signs of inflammation.
- Additional microbiology testing where relevant.
The result does not by itself identify the cause of the increased leukocytes.
Why Choose Al Safa Lab?
At Al Safa Lab, specialised semen testing is handled with privacy and clear sample guidance.
- Clear preparation and collection instructions.
- Confidential handling of semen samples.
- Professional laboratory testing.
- Printed laboratory reports.
- Digital results via WhatsApp or email.
- Access to related male fertility investigations when requested.
Book Your Peroxidase Test in Semen
If your doctor has requested a peroxidase test in semen or Endtz test, contact Al Safa Lab to confirm the collection instructions and expected result time.
Al Safa Lab – Nasr City, Cairo
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a peroxidase test in semen detect?
It helps identify and estimate peroxidase-positive white blood cells in a semen sample.
Is the Endtz test the same as a peroxidase test?
The Endtz test is a peroxidase-based method used to assess leukocytes in semen.
Why are round cells found in semen?
Round cells may include white blood cells or immature germ cells. Further testing can help distinguish between them.
Does a high leukocyte result mean infection?
Not necessarily. Increased leukocytes may be associated with inflammation or infection, but the result alone does not identify the cause.
Does the test require a blood sample?
No. The test is performed using a semen sample.
Do I need to fast?
No. Fasting is not required.
How will I receive my results?
Results can be provided as a printed report or sent digitally via WhatsApp or email.