Severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: Intensive care management of two cases

Abstract

Severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is characterized by increased capillary permeability and fluid retention in the third space. It is generally a complication of assisted reproduction therapy (ART) with exogenous gonadotropins, but cases with natural onset of OHSS have been reported. The massive extravascular exudation can cause tense ascites, pleural and pericardial effusion, hypovolemic shock, oliguria, electrolyte imbalance (hyponatremia and hyperkalemia), and hemoconcentration, with a tendency for hypercoagulability and risk of life-threatening thromboembolic complications. The patient can rarely develop multi-organ failure (adult respiratory distress syndrome, renal failure) and death. With increasing use of ART, this syndrome may be seen more frequently in the intensive care unit (ICU), requiring multidisciplinary care. We report the management of two cases of severe OHSS, which required admission to the ICU in our hospital.

Keywords

• Intensive care
• multi-organ failure
• ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome