OBJECTIVETo investigate the pathogenesis of globozoospermia, fertilization ability of round-headed sperm, and the application value of assisted oocyte activation in intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) for the wives of glohozoospermia men.

METHODSWe collected oocytes from the wives of 2 globozoospermia patients and randomly divided them into two groups after ICSI to receive calcium ionophore A23187-activation and conventional treatment, respectively. We reviewed the relevant literature published at home and abroad, and discussed the etiology of globozoospermia, fertilization ability of round-headed sperm, and treatment options for this disease.

RESULTSQuality embryos were obtained in the A23187-activation group while no fertilized oocytes, oocyte cleavage, quality embryos, or blastular formation were found in the conventional treatment group. Both women achieved pregnancy and gave birth to healthy neonates after transfer of the quality embryos from the A23187-activation group.

CONCLUSIONCalcium ionophore A23187 can be applied to ICSI for the wives of globozoospermia men and bring about desirable clinical outcomes. Meanwhile, attention should be paid to its safety.