Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome: A Rare Case of Unilateral Pleural Effusion

• Published in: Journal of emergency medicine case reports 2016-10, Vol.7 (4), p.74-76
• Main Authors: Gurbuz, Ali Sami, Calik, Mustafa, Ozcimen, Emel Ebru, Ozcimen, Necati, Calik, Saniye Goknil
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2149-9934; 2149-9934
• DOI: 10.5152/jemcr.2016.1502

Introduction : Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is a rare, usually self-limiting, life-threatening iatrogenic complication. Pleural effusion is usually bilateral and seen in severe forms. Unilateral pleural effusion in OHSS is extremely rare. Here, we present a patient with unilateral pleural effusion due to OHSS. Case Report : A 30-year-old woman with a history of infertility for 5 years and no significant past medical history or physical findings applied to an in vitro fertilization (IVF) center. Ovarian stimulation was initiated. She was admitted with complaints of dyspnea on the second day that she was β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG)-positive. She had tachypnea and decreased breath sounds. All laboratory tests were within the normal range. Ultrasonography evaluation demonstrated right pleural effusion without intraperitoneal fluid. Thoracentesis was performed, and 3000 cc exudative fluid was drained. Conclusion : The number of patients who undergo infertility treatment at IVF centers has been increasing. Although OHSS is considered as if it is a syndrome that belongs to gynecology and obstetrics clinics or IVF units, the chances of clinicians who work in the emergency service and thoracic diseases and thoracic surgery centers encountering these patients have increased. Therefore, it should be kept in mind that there may be unilateral pleural effusion without peritoneal fluid in OHSS.