does intravenous administration of human albumin prevent severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome?

Objective: To report our experience with i.v. albumin as a means to prevent ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) in high-risk patients.

Design: Retrospective case-series.

Setting: University hospital-based IVF program.

Patients: Five women undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation for IVF-Based on previous history and/or E2 measurements and number of ovarian follicles, these patients were considered to be at high risk for developing OHSS.

Interventions: Intravenous albumin was given at the time of oocyte retrieval. Additional doses were given 12 and 24 hours later.

Main Outcome Measure: Development of OHSS.

Results: Four patients developed OHSS; two of them had the severe form of the syndrome.

Conclusions: Severe OHSS may develop in high-risk patients despite the prophylactic administration of i.v. albumin.