does intravenous administration of human albumin prevent severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome?

OBJECTIVE

To report our experience with i.v. albumin as a means to prevent ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) in high-risk patients.

DESIGN

Retrospective case-series.

SETTING

University hospital-based IVF program.

PATIENTS

Five women undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation for IVF-Based on previous history and/or E2 measurements and number of ovarian follicles, these patients were considered to be at high risk for developing OHSS.

INTERVENTIONS

Intravenous albumin was given at the time of oocyte retrieval. Additional doses were given 12 and 24 hours later.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Development of OHSS.

RESULTS

Four patients developed OHSS; two of them had the severe form of the syndrome.

CONCLUSIONS

Severe OHSS may develop in high-risk patients despite the prophylactic administration of i.v. albumin.