Total Basal Ovarian Volume as a Marker of Ovarian Reserve: Myth or Reality

Abstract

Introduction: Total Basal Ovarian Volume (BOV) is a marker of ovarian follicular pool assessment known as ovarian reserve. Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART) centres rely on Antral Follicular Count (AFC) for the planning of stimulation protocols. BOV is presently considered a subordinate marker and trailing behind the AFC and Anti-Mullerian Hormone (AMH) in their relative importance. Aim: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of BOV as a marker of ovarian reserve and its correlation with the age and AFC. Materials and Methods: In this prospective, case-control study, A total of 30 patients were included and compared to the equal number of controls (with proven fertility). The BOV was measured and then compared with clinical and other sonographic parameters, recorded for the same patient in both the groups. SPSS platform was used to perform the Student’s t-test and Mann-Whitney U test for intergroup comparisons. Correlations were determined by Pearson’s ranked correlation coefficient. Results: Regression analysis revealed the best correlation of BOV with AFC in both the groups in the present study. The correlation of BOV with age was nonlinear and insignificant in the group of subfertile patients; however, BOV strongly correlated with AFC in both the groups. Conclusion: Ovarian volume is a routine parameter to be measured in pelvic sonography; however, its role in prediction of ovarian reserve is confounded by many factors and hence, should be treated as a surrogate marker with no remarkable impression over treatment planning.

Keywords

• antral follicular count
• ovary
• subfertile