Ex vivo retrieval and cryopreservation of oocytes from oophorectomized specimens for fertility preservation in a BRCA1 mutation carrier with ovarian cancer

Abstract

To report a case of exvivo oocyte retrieval from oophorectomized specimens in a BRCA1 mutation carrier undergoing surgical staging for ovarian cancer. Video case report and literature review. University-affiliated center. A 37-year-old single woman, gravida 0, with a known BRCA1 mutation, presented to her oncologist with a complex right ovarian mass and elevated CA-125 level. Ovarian cancer was suspected, and the patient consented to complete surgical staging. Although she desired to cryopreserve oocytes for fertility preservation, conventional oocyte retrieval was deemed unsafe because follicular puncture would compromise the integrity of the ovarian capsule, thereby increasing the risk of malignant cell spillage and cancer upstaging. Luteal-phase ovarian stimulation with gonadotropins and letrozole was performed. Surgical staging was initiated 34hours after the administration of the ovulatory trigger. Exvivo retrieval of oocytes from bilateral oophorectomized specimens under direct visualization at the time of surgical staging. Seven mature oocytes were retrieved and vitrified. Concomitant surgical staging was completed. The present case highlights the feasibility of exvivo or extracorporeal retrieval of mature oocytes from oophorectomized specimens in patients with ovarian cancer. By avoiding follicular puncture within the pelvic cavity, it minimizes the risk of malignant cell spillage and cancer upstaging.