BRCA mutation carriers show normal ovarian response in in vitro fertilization cycles

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the association between carriage of BRCA1/2 mutations and ovarian performance, as demonstrated by in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes.

Design: Retrospective cohort study.

Setting: Two tertiary IVF centers.

Patient(s): BRCA mutation carriers undergoing IVF for preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) or fertility preservation were compared with non-BRCA PGD or fertility preservation patients, matched by age, IVF protocol, IVF center, and cancer disease status.

Intervention(s): In vitro fertilization cycles for PGD and fertility preservation.

Main outcome measure(s): Outcome of IVF: oocyte yield, poor response rate, number of zygotes, pregnancy rates.

Result(s): A total of 62 BRCA mutation carriers and 62 matched noncarriers were included; 42 were fertility preservation breast cancer patients, and 82 were PGD non-cancer patients. Mean (± SD) age of patients was 32 ± 3.58 years. Number of stimulation days and total stimulation dose were comparable between carriers and noncarriers. Their cycles resulted in comparable oocyte yield (13.75 vs. 14.75) and low response rates (8.06% vs. 6.45%). Number of zygotes, fertilization rates, and conception rates were also comparable.

Conclusion(s): Both healthy and cancer-affected BRCA mutation carriers demonstrated normal ovarian response in IVF cycles.

Keywords: BRCA1; BRCA2; IVF; fertility preservation; ovarian reserve.