ABSTRACT
Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is an iatrogenic condition caused by ovulation induction (OI) for the treatment of infertility, particularly if using hMG with hCG luteal support. Patients with polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD) are at increased risk of developing OHSS. It may be mild (2-6% of OI cycles), moderate or severe (0.1-0.2%) of cycles. The pathogenesis is poorly understood, but the condition is characterized by ovarian enlargement and the shift of fluid from the intravascular space into the peritoneal, pleural and rarely, pericardial spaces. There is resultant oliguria. The increase in capillary permeability may be due to increased production of prostaglandin and histamine. OHSS presents with vague symptoms of headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness and abdominal pain. All professionals should be aware of the importance of these symptoms in patients undergoing OI. OHSS can be a life-threatening condition and serious thromboembolic complications are not uncommon.
