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

Objective: To report our experience with IV 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 E(2) 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 IV albumin.