Peripartum Cardiomyopathy

Abstract

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a rare cause of heart failure (HF) that affects women late in pregnancy or in the early puerperium. There are several definitions for PPCM. While there are numerous potential mechanisms for Peripartum (post-partum) cardiomyopathy, its exact cause remains unknown¹, but the etiopathogenesis is likely to be multifactorial. PPCM is uncommon before 36 weeks of pregnancy, and afflicted women generally present during the first month after delivery. PPCM should be differentiated from pre-existing cardiomyopathy, undiagnosed congenital heart disease, pre-existing valvular heart disease, myocardial infarction, pulmonary embolism and diastolic heart failure due to hypertensive heart disease. The principles for treating acute HF caused by PPCM are the same as those for acute HF caused by any other cause with some limitations during pregnancy. Prompt treatment is critical. There is no necessity for an early delivery unless the maternal or foetal health has deteriorated. In women who present with advanced HF with haemodynamic instability, urgent delivery, regardless of gestation, may be considered. Because women with PPCM have a significant chance of relapse in subsequent pregnancies, they need comprehensive contraceptive counselling. In general, the prognosis is good, with more than half of the patients regaining LV function spontaneously within six months of giving birth. Our aim is to put forth an in-depth review of the Peripartum Cardiomyopathy in contemporary practice.

Keywords: Cardiac MRI; Heart failure; LV function; Peripartum cardiomyopathy.