Severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome following the GIFT procedure

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is the most serious complication of ovulation induction. With the increasing popularity of assisted reproductive techniques, OHSS will be encountered more frequently by the intensivist. The first case of severe OHSS following in vitro fertilisation (IVF) was reported by Friedman et al in 1984. Although rare, severe OHSS is a life-threatening condition requiring admission to the intensive care unit (ICU). We report a case of severe OHSS following the GIFT (gamete intrafallopian tube transfer) procedure.The characteristic features of OHSS, namely ovarian enlargement with passage of fluid and protein from the vascular space into peritoneal and pleural cavities, is well illustrated by this case report.