Persistent megalocystic ovaries after ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome in a postpartum patient with polycystic ovarian syndrome: a case report

Abstract

BackgroundOvary enlargement is common in controlled ovarian stimulation, which could continue several months during a successful pregnancy. However, persistent megalocystic ovaries 3 years after ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) were rare. Here we will present you the case and treatment as well as discuss the probable etiology.Case presentationA 34-year-old woman with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and a history of infertility presented to the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Peking Union Medical College Hospital with abdominal pain and persistently enlarged ovaries 36 months after OHSS. Enlarged ovaries were evaluated with ultrasonography and serum tests. Diagnostic laparoscopic surgery with detorsion and drainage followed by GnRHa treatment was performed. Symptoms and ovarian size evaluated by vaginal ultrasound were the main outcome measures. The patient was discharged from the hospital 5 days after surgery without any remarkable complications. Both ovaries recovered to almost normal after a monthly injection of GnRHa for 3 months.ConclusionsOvarian enlargement may persist for a long time in patients with severe OHSS even after sex hormone levels and ovarian functions return to normal. Long term follow-up is necessary and ovarian torsion should be suspected when accompanied by abdominal pain. Acupuncture plus GnRHa treatment may be an effective way for these cases.