ABSTRACT

Severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) in patients undergoing hormonal treat­ ment for multiple follicular recruitment prior to in vitro fertilization (IVF) has been discussed extensively in the literature. Iatrogenic lethal outcome of these elective treatment modalities, however, is sparsely found: is this due to the very low incidence or due to (for obvious rea­ sons) unwillingness to report it? It goes without saying that the impact of this most serious com­ plication is devastating to the partners and fam­ ilies, as well as to the medical professionals con­ cerned. Should we not learn from each other? Do we have to wait a generation before long­ term observational studies may become avail­ able, and should we, medical professionals, remain blind and/or deaf to reports that appear meanwhile in the lay literature?