ABSTRACT
The induction of ovulation by gonadotropins can result in ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), which can be lethal in its severest form. Mild and moderate ovarian hyperstimulation are usually self-limited and require no further treatment other than observation. Severe OHSS, appearing in about 0.2-5% of cases undergoing induction of ovulation, is characterized by massive ovarian enlargement, ascites, pleural effusion, oliguria, hemoconcentration and thromboembolic phenomena1-4. Accumulation of extravascular protein-rich exudate in the peri toneum and in the pleura combined with intravascular volume depletion and hemocon centration are essential characteristics of the syndrome and are related to an increased capil lary permeability5-7.
