Variations in vascular endothelial growth factor levels during ovarian superovulation and reduction of ovarian hyperstimulation incidence in young women: A prospective study

Abstract

Variations in Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) levels were prospectively evaluated in 18 young women undergoing in vitro fertilization treatments according to the "Long Protocol" and a typical pattern of VEGF levels was recorded. A significant increase in VEGF concentrations was observed only when the follicles reached a mean diameter of 15.3 mm in concurrence with mature oocyte retrieval. Since an increase in VEGF levels is related to follicular vascularity and oocyte developpment, our study supports the approach that oocyte retrieval may be performed when follicles > 15 mm in diameter appear. Anticipating egg retrieval in young patients with an optimal ovarian reserve may decrease the incidence of severe ovarian hyperstimulation, without compromising the treatment results.

Association between Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Clinical Outcomes of IVF-ET/ICSI

“…Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is the most important angiogenine discovered so far and is a growth factor yet known to have both pro-angiogenesis and vascular permeability enhancing functions in all proangiogenic factors. 1,2 Previous studies have shown that, in the ovulation cycle, with the follicle growth and maturation, VEGF levels in serum and follicular fluid were also significantly higher, suggesting that VEGF may participate in the development of follicles. 3,4 However, there are few reports on the related research of VEGF in human embryonic development.…”