Higher C-reactive protein levels during IVF stimulation are associated with ART failure

C-reactive protein (CRP) is believed to be a sensitive marker of endothelial activation and inflammation. The association between an inflammatory state and CRP has prompted research on changes in CRP levels in assisted reproductive technique (ART) cycles. IVF success and CRP levels were not correlated previously. The aim of this prospective study was to assess CRP levels during IVF stimulation and correlate them with IVF success.

Twenty-eight Women were stimulated using the 'Flare-up' protocol with down-regulation of Triprorelin. CRP levels were measured on cycle days 3, 8, ovum pick-up day and 12 days following embryo-transfer (betahCG testing day).

CRP levels in women who conceived after IVF protocol (n=8) were compared to CRP levels in women who failed to conceive (n=20).

The mean age for both groups was similar. CRP levels were significantly different on day 3 (p<0.05), but not on day 8, of the cycle. Average CRP levels on ovum pick-up and on betahCG test days were similar, as was the number of oocytes collected or embryos replaced. Patients who failed to conceive had significantly higher levels of CRP on day 3 of the cycle, before commencement of gonadotrophin administration, and the higher levels continued throughout treatment, although not reaching statistical significance.

An inflammatory state, indicated by high CRP levels during stimulation, may serve as a prognostic indicator of IVF success.