The use of dopamine for treatment of severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome

Abstract

Objective: To assess the performance of low-close dopamine treatment for severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).

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Design: Prospective descriptive study.

Method: Eight patients suffering from severe hCG-induced OHSS were included.

Results: All cases of severe OHSS were characterized by ascites, pleural effusions, excessive hemoconcentration, hypovolemia, hypercoagulation, renal insufficiency with oliguria and elevated serum creatinine and urea concentrations and liver insufficiency with elevated transaminases levels. Serum estradiol concentrations were 2500-11000 pmol/l. The ovaries were 12-25 cm in diameter and contained multiple lutein cysts. Treatment of severe OHSS included meticulous fluid and electrolyte balance until hemoconcentration abated and hematocrit was less than 0,4 g/l. All patients were administered an intravenous low-dose dopamine. The use of dopamine lead to improvement of renal perfusion, high urine flow and reduction in ascites. No adverse events were observed during administration of dopamine.