Spermatogenesis during extended lithium treatment.

Very limited information exists on possible effects of lithium on male spermatogenesis. The formation and transit of the male gamete occurs in a highly sensitive ionic environment. We prospectively analyzed ten male euthymic bipolar outpatients who had been on extended maintenance lithium. Samples were collected at entrance, days 35, and 70, in order to assess gametes in different stages of spermatogenesis. No significant differences emerged either within, between subjects, or in contrast to a matched control relative to a series of analytic criteria.