Vascular permeability factor and vascular endothelial growth factor in ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome: a preliminary report.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether serum levels of vascular permeability factor (VPF) are elevated in patients with ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) and to determine if luteinizing granulosa cells may be a source of VPF.

DESIGN

Prospective observational study.

SETTING

University IVF and GIFT program.

PATIENTS: Eight consecutive IVF and GIFT patients at high risk for OHSS.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Vascular permeability factor concentration in serum and follicular fluid.

RESULTS

Serum VPF was significantly higher (15.2 +/- 4.0 pM; mean +/- SEM) on day +14 in the group who developed severe OHSS compared with those who did not. Follicular fluid VPF (171.5 +/- 18.5 pM) was approximately 100-fold greater than serum (1.7 +/- 1.3 pM) or peritoneal fluid (2.5 +/- 1.3 pM) 36 hours after hCG administration.

CONCLUSION

Vascular permeability factor is elevated in patients with severe OHSS and the ovary may be a source of VPF secretion.