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A woman with polycystic ovary syndrome treated for infertility by in vitro fertilization

Nature Reviews Endocrinology volume 5, pages 462–465 (2009)Cite this article

Abstract

Background. A 25-year-old South Asian woman presented at an infertility unit with a 2-year history of anovulatory infertility. She had experienced irregular and infrequent periods for over a decade.

Investigations. Endocrine profile (follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, thyroid-function test, prolactin, testosterone), oral glucose tolerance test and pelvic ultrasonography were performed.

Diagnosis. Polycystic ovary syndrome, in accordance with the recent Rotterdam consensus (2004) criteria.

Management. The patient failed to conceive by conventional ovulation-induction therapies with clomifene and gonadotropins. She subsequently underwent an in vitro fertilization cycle, to which she over-responded and developed a severe form of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. The diagnosis of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome was based on clinical and ultrasonographic features. She was hospitalized and needed extensive supportive care, including insertion of chest and abdominal drains.

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Figure 1: A chest radiograph of the patient, which demonstrates a left-side pleural effusion with compression of the lower lobe.

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Acknowledgements

Written consent for publication was obtained from the patient.

Charles P. Vega, University of California, Irvine, CA, is the author of and is solely responsible for the content of the learning objectives, questions and answers of the MedscapeCME-accredited continuing medical education activity associated with this article.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, St James's University Hospital, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK

    Thomas Tang

  2. Reproductive Medicine Unit, Leeds General Infirmary, Leeds, UK

    Adam H. Balen

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  1. Thomas Tang
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  2. Adam H. Balen
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Correspondence to Adam H. Balen.

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The authors declare no competing financial interests.

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Tang, T., Balen, A. A woman with polycystic ovary syndrome treated for infertility by in vitro fertilization. Nat Rev Endocrinol 5, 462–465 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1038/nrendo.2009.125

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