Administration of intravenous albumin around the time of oocyte retrieval reduces pregnancy rate without preventing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND/AIM: The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate whether IV albumin infusion around the time of oocyte retrieval prevents ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and affects the pregnancy rate.

METHODS

A meta-analysis of data from 9 randomized controlled trials including 1,613 women at high risk for developing OHSS in in vitro fertilization cycles was performed.

RESULTS

The combined incidence of severe OHSS was 6.0% in the IV albumin group and 7.9% in saline or no treatment groups. These rates were statistically not different (RR = 0.80, 95% CI = 0.57-1.12). Treatment with IV albumin significantly lowered the pregnancy rates (RR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.74-0.98).

CONCLUSIONS

The combined data presented in this meta-analysis do not support a benefit for IV albumin around the time of oocyte retrieval in preventing OHSS and even showed a deleterious effect on the pregnancy rate.