[Multiple organ failure syndrome after ovarian hyperstimulation]

Ovarian stimulation is used to treat female infertility, especially in Black Africa where infertility is considered as shameful. Ovarian stimulation can lead not only to multiple pregnancies but also to severe systemic complications such as the one described in this report. Ovarian stimulation using human menopausal gonadotropin led to ovarian hyperstimulation and multiple organ failure in a 28-year-old Senegalese woman. Symptomatic treatment using corticosteroids, abdominal paracentesis to relieve ascites, and fluid expansion failed. Bilateral ovariectomy was performed resulting in permanent sterility. Ovarian stimulation requires close monitoring by ultrasound visualization and measurement of 17 beta-estradiol to allow early detection of complications.