Abnormal spermatozoa, testicular degeneration, and varicocele in a ram
Ott, R.S.; Heath, E.H.; Bane, A.
American Journal of Veterinary Research 43(2): 241-245
1982
ISSN/ISBN: 0002-9645 PMID: 7091826 Document Number: 184668
A 4-year-old Corriedale ram, with a history of infertility, had 50% abnormal acrosomes in the ejaculate resembling knobbed spermatozoa. Electron microscopy of the affected acrosomes revealed a membrane-enclosed inclusion or cyst filled with particles. The abnormal acrosomes were combined with a high prevalence of other degenerative changes, such as head abnormalities, proximal droplets, and loose heads. 9 more ejaculates were collected over 8 months. Abnormal acrosomes decreased to 5% after 4 months, but increased to 83% a month later. Examination of the testes after castration revealed bilateral varicocele and degeneration of seminiferous epithelium.