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Review
. 2013 Aug;9(3):179-84.
doi: 10.2174/1573403x113099990029.

Peripartum cardiomyopathy: moving towards a more central role of genetics

Roberto Cemin  1 , Rajesh Janardhanan, Luca Donazzan, Massimo Daves
Affiliations
Review

Peripartum cardiomyopathy: moving towards a more central role of genetics

Roberto Cemin et al. Curr Cardiol Rev. 2013 Aug.

Abstract

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PCM) is a relatively rare disease with potentially devasting consequences requiring prompt identification and correct treatment. Overall prognosis is good in majority of the cases, although some patients may progress to irreversible heart failure. Early diagnosis is important and effective treatment reduces mortality rates and increases the chance of complete recovery of ventricular systolic function. The aetiology and pathogenesis seems to be multifactorial and poorly understood, with the available literature rather conflicting. In recent years, there has been increased interest in the role played by genetic predisposition in the development of PCM. It probably develops as a result of a complex interaction of pregnancy-associated factors and genetic factors and recently there have been many observations pointing out the central role played by a genetic predisposition. The direct and indirect observations on genetic susceptibility may offer new insights into the pathogenesis of PCM. However, larger studies are needed before advising routine genetic testing in these patients.

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Figures

Fig. (1)
Fig. (1)
Proposal of unifying hypothesis for the pathogenesis of PCM: moving towards a more central role of genetics (see text for detail).
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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