ENDOCRINE STUDIES AT HIGH ALTITUDE

Abstract

Nine men were exposed to an altitude of 14,000 ft. for 4 weeks. Sperm counts showed persistent decrease, indicating damage early in the spermatogenic cycle. A significant increase of abnormal forms, mainly of the "mature" type, was observed, revealing that damage also occurs at a late stage of spermateliosls. Motlllty declined without changes in live spermatozoa. Motility changes and fructose elevation seem to be unrelated and due to separate effects of hypoxia. Seminal pH and fructose were raised; citric acid remained within normal limits until descent to sea level. Descent usually led to recovery.