Is vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) the main mediator in ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)?

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) remains one of the most life-threatening and potentially fatal complications of assisted reproduction treatments (ART), due to excessive stimulation of the ovaries by exogenously administrated gonadotropins. The pathogenesis of OHSS remains obscure and patient treatments are empirical. However, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been suggested to be responsible for OHSS. The present hypothesis aims to discuss the possible role of epithelial ion channels particularly cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) involvement in the pathogenesis of OHSS. This may provide grounds for the development of a better treatment strategy to reduce the risk of OHSS and improve in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome.