Variations in serum vascular endothelial growth factor binding profiles and the development of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome.

Objective: To compare the ability of serum to sequester vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) among patients who did and did not develop ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).

Design: Prospective, observational study.

Setting: A regional fertility centre with a commitment to research.

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and assisted reproductive technologies: why some and not others?

Background: alpha(2)-Macroglobulin (alpha(2)M) is a multifactorial binding protein, found in follicular fluid, that is a naturally occurring inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The aim of this study was to determine if there is a relationship between serum VEGF levels, alpha(2)M levels and the development of OHSS in hyperstimulated subjects undergoing IVF (those with 15 or more oocytes).

Methods: Venous blood was collected at the time of oocyte retrieval from subjects who yielded 15 or more oocytes.