AETIOLOGY, DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF HAEMOSPERMIA: A REVIEW

Abstract

ABSTRACT
Objective: To provide an overview of the aetiology, investigations and the various
treatment methods currently available in the management of haemospermia.
Data source: Review of literature was effected through medline and index medicus
search of major published indexed journals and books.
Data selection: Published data on haemospermia, hemospermia, haematospermia
and semen over the last five decades (1967-2007) were utilised.
Data extraction: Abstracts of selected articles were read and analysed to determine
their possible contribution and relevance to this article.
Data synthesis: All relevant articles were reviewed in full and contribution extracted
for this review as necessary.
Conclusion: Haemospermia (haematospermia) is a relatively frequent, distressing
and frightening symptom in sexually active men. It is usually a benign self-limiting
condition resolving within several weeks except for the few with underlying aetiology
including prostate malignancy and idiopathic. Patients presenting with haemospermia
should have a detailed medical history, physical examillation including blood
pressure measurement, genital and digital rectal examination. Persistent and
recurrent haemospermia is best investigated by TRUS, CT, MRI, urethrocystoscopy,
and biopsy and histological confirmation of malignancies. Specific treatment depends
on the underlying pathological cause but often involves only minimal investigations
and simple reassurance.