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. 2004 Jul;21(7):249–255. doi: 10.1023/B:JARG.0000042010.86102.03

Association of Inhibin B Serum Levels with Parameters of Follicular Response in a Randomized Controlled Trial Comparing GnRH Agonist Versus Antagonist Protocols for Ovarian Hyperstimulation

Barbara Sonntag 1, Ludwig Kiesel 1, Eberhard Nieschlag 2, Hermann M Behre 1
PMCID: PMC3455182  PMID: 15526982

Abstract

Purpose: To study the association of inhibin B with ovarian response to FSH stimulation, applying either GnRH agonist or antagonist.

Methods: In a prospective randomized controlled trial, 46 patients undergoing COH received either triptorelin (group I, n = 15) or ganirelix (group II, n = 31). Parameters of follicular response and inhibin B serum levels were assessed

Results: Inhibin B before FSH stimulation was significantly lower in group I than group II. The FSH stimulation phase was significantly longer in group I than group II, and the total FSH dose was significantly higher with a comparable number of retrieved oocytes. Day 1 inhibin B in group I, but not group II, was significantly correlated with the number of large ovarian follicles and retrieved oocytes. In group II, but not group I, inhibin B on day 1 was inversely correlated with the daily and total FSH dose as well as FSH stimulation duration.

Conclusions: The association of inhibin B serum levels with parameters of follicular response in COH is different in patients assigned to GnRH agonist vs. antagonist treatment protocols.

Keywords: COH, GnRH agonist, GnRH antagonist, inhibin B

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