Sperm washing to prevent HIV transmission from HIV-infected men but allowing conception in sero-discordant couples.
Level 1 - systematic review of randomized trials
Systematic review of randomized controlled trials (empty review)
PubMed 21249711 · doi:10.1002/14651858.CD008498.pub2
What was done
The authors conducted a Cochrane systematic review to assess the benefits and harms of sperm washing in HIV-positive men to prevent viral transmission while allowing conception in HIV-negative female partners. They searched multiple databases (Cochrane HIV/AIDS Group Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, SCOPUS, AIDSearch, AJOL, LILACS, INDEX MEDICUS, ClinicalTrials.gov) and relevant conference proceedings up to November 10, 2010. They sought randomized or quasi-randomized controlled trials regardless of language, publication status, or year.
What was found
The search identified 44 studies, but none met the inclusion criteria. Zero randomized or quasi-randomized controlled trials were found evaluating the efficacy or safety of sperm washing for this indication.
Why it matters
Current clinical practice and evidence surrounding sperm washing to prevent HIV transmission during conception rely entirely on observational studies. This review highlights an absence of randomized trial data quantifying the precise efficacy and safety risks of the intervention.
Limits
The review is entirely empty (0 included trials), precluding any meta-analysis or pooled quantitative estimate of risk or benefit. Observational studies were excluded from the analysis, leaving the review unable to evaluate non-randomized evidence of real-world transmission rates.
Cited by
- context Sperm washing procedures reduce the risk of HIV transmission from an HIV-positive father to an embryo to near zero.