Transient Premature Ovarian Insufficiency Post-COVID-19 Infection

Abstract

Anti-ovarian antibodies (AOAs) have been linked to autoimmune premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). This report details a case in which a patient experienced transient POI after a COVID-19 infection and tested positive for AOA. After treatment with oral contraceptives and subsequent high-dose oral corticosteroids, the patient underwent fertility treatment with in vitro fertilization (IVF). A total of 23 oocytes were retrieved. Two euploid blastocysts and three untested blastocysts were successfully created. This report hypothesizes the connection between autoimmune POI, AOA, and COVID-19. Conflicting data have been reported linking COVID-19 and ovarian injury. However, it is suggested that COVID-19 transiently impacts the menstrual cycle and anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) levels. Treatment to overcome poor ovarian response due to AOA has not been adequately determined; however, similar autoimmune conditions have been successfully treated with corticosteroids.

The Effect of COVID-19 Severity, Associated Serum Autoantibodies and Time Interval after the Disease on the Outcomes of Fresh Oocyte ART Cycles in Non-Vaccinated Patients

“…In addition to the possible direct harmful effects of SARS-CoV-2 on reproductive structures, including oocytes and the embryo, or indirect effects through the RAS, the involvement of autoimmune mechanisms may also contribute to reproductive disorders in post-COVID-19 patients and affect the outcomes of assisted reproductive technologies ART cycles [ 21 ]. SARS-CoV-2 shares similarities with other viruses such as parvovirus B19, the Epstein–Barr virus, and cytomegalovirus, which are environmental triggers of autoimmunity in genetically predisposed people [ 22 ].…”