The ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome

Abstract

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is an iatrogenic complication induced by exogenous administration of substances that are used to stimulate follicular growth and ovulation. There has only been one reported incidence of a spontaneous occurrence of OHSS and that was in 1992. The crucial event in the development of the syndrome is the administration of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), although several studies have reported the onset of OHSS after gonadotropin stimulation despite withholding HCG. OHSS is represented by a broad spectrum of clinical and laboratory manifestations which, in the severest form, can induce a life-threatening condition.