We report a case of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome associated with fetal trisomy 21. A primigravida presented at 17 1/7 weeks of gestation with abdominal pain because of enlarged ovaries. Multiple fetal abnormalities were seen on pregnancy ultrasound. Fetal trisomy 21 was diagnosed by amniocentesis. The patient's human chorionic gonadotropin level was markedly elevated, as often occurs with fetal trisomy 21, and was likely associated with the ovarian hyperstimulation. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome associated with fetal aneuploidy has not been previously described. Journal of Perinatology (2009) 29, 388-390; doi:10.1038/jp.2008 Keywords: aneuploidy; trisomy 21; ovarian hyperstimulation
CaseThe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) refers to a combination of ovarian enlargement because of multiple ovarian cysts and an acute fluid shift out of the intravascular space. Most cases of OHSS are associated with the use of exogenously administered gonadotropins and occasionally clomiphene citrate. We discuss a case of mild OHSS resulting from a singleton gestation conceived after spontaneous ovulation. The pregnancy was complicated by fetal trisomy 21; serum human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels were presumably associated with the OHSS.A 35-year-old Asian primigravida who conceived spontaneously presented to the emergency room at 17 1/7 weeks of gestation with abdominal pain of 2 days' duration. She denied fevers, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or other complaints. Her prenatal course had been unremarkable until that point. She had not undergone serum screening for her advanced maternal age status. She had no notable medical, surgical or gynecologic history. She used no medications and had no drug allergies. She did not smoke, drink alcohol or use drugs. Vital signs were stable. On physical exam, the abdomen was tender in both lower quadrants, but without rebound or guarding. Bowel sounds were normal. On pelvic exam, the cervix was closed and nontender. No discharge or bleeding were appreciated.On laboratory testing, complete blood count and electrolytes were within normal limits. hCG level was 430 525 IU l À1 . Pelvic ultrasound showed enlarged maternal ovaries. The right ovary measured 6.2 Â 4.9 Â 4.6 cm and contained multiple cysts, the largest measuring 2.8 cm. The left ovary measured 3.8 Â 4.5 Â 3.5 cm, also with multiple cysts, the largest measuring 1.8 cm. Pregnancy ultrasound showed fetal biometry consistent with 17 1/7 weeks of gestation. A 1.6 cm cystic hygroma was seen, along with hydrops. Scalp edema and ascites were visible. The amniotic fluid volume was normal. The patient was discharged home from the emergency room with prescriptions for pain medication.The next day, the patient presented for counseling regarding the fetal ultrasound. She elected to undergo amniocentesis; the karyotype indicated fetal trisomy 21. Pregnancy options were discussed; the patient opted for expectant management. At 18 weeks, ultrasound showed a fetal pericardial effusion. At 19 weeks, severe oligohydramnios developed. ...