Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome

Review

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is an iatrogenic complication of stimulated ovulation within modern procedures of assisted reproductive technology, which is nowadays still on the rise. In predisposed women, this process may get out of control and the activation of many neurohumoral systems results in OHSS. The incidence moves between 0,5-11% of all IVF(in vitro fertilization) patients, severe life-threatening form occurs in 0,1-2% of stimulated cycles. The state is characterized by significant cystic ovarian enlargement, high capillary permeability with fluid leakage to the third space, hypovolemia and hypercoagulation. Next complications are dysfunction or final organs failure as the consequence of hypoperfusion and thromboembolic event. The algorithm illustrates the issue very practically and leads the investigator logically step by step to the right therapy in clinical practice.