Peripartum cardiomyopathy: clinical and therapeutic characteristics

Abstract

Peripartum cardiomyopathy occurs in from 1 in 3,000 to 1 in 4,000 pregnancies in the United States. Its clinical and hemodynamic findings are similar to idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy; however, peripartum cardiomyopathy shows a high incidence of myocarditis. Future studies will define the role of immune factors associated with the development of this disorder and will help in a better outcome for these patients.