Q: What is 'LUF' syndrome?

A: 'LUF' is an abbreviation for the 'Luteinized Unruptured Follicle' syndrome. Usually, within 38 hours of the urinary LH surge, the follicle ruptures and releases the egg. Sometimes, because of abnormal follicular development or pelvic adhesions, there is failure of the ovary to actually release the egg into the peritoneal (abdominal) cavity at the time of ovulation. This problem can be detected by correlating the follicle ultrasound results with urinary LH testing. If it is due to a hormonal abnormality, administering hCG can correc the problem.