Received April 30, 2002
Accepted May 12, 2002

The authors present a review of the literature regarding the empty follicle syndrome. This situation is defined as a condition characterized by a lack in lhe recovery of the oocytes, during the aspiration of ali of the stimulated follicles, for in vitro fertilization, even after repeated flushes of the follicles. The incidence in the literature ranges from 2 to 7 % and although many theories have been proposed, there is still no consensus whether this condition is in fact a syndrome. Thus, Empty follicle syndrome can be a transitory condition, of pharmacological origino Thus, until its actual pathogenesis is elucidated it is important that, in the presence o f a situation of complete absence of oocytes in cycles with a great number of follicles, preventive measures must be taken in the following cycle, in order to avoid a possible recurrence.