Peripartum cardiomyopathy searching for a better understanding

Congestive heart failure is an uncommon complication of pregnancy with potentially life-threatening consequences. Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a disease of unknown cause in which severe left ventricular dysfunction occurs during late pregnancy or the early puerperium. In the past, the diagnosis of this entity was made on clinical grounds; however, modern echocardiographic techniques have allowed more accurate diagnoses by excluding cases of diseases that mimic the clinical symptoms and signs of heart failure. Risk factors for peripartum cardiomyopathy include advanced maternal age, multiparity, African descent, twinning, and long-term tocolysis. An extensive search for the causes of peripartum cardiomyopathy has been unrevealing. Treatment does not differ from treatment of idiopathic cardiomyopathy. The prognosis of peripartum cardiomyopathy is related to the recovery of ventricular function. Caution is advised in recommending subsequent pregnancy, especially if left ventricular dysfunction is persistent. In this review, we will discuss different aspects of PPCM as the initial patient contact, obstetricians and family practitioners must recognize this malady early and rapidly institute the proper medical therapy directed towards the congestive state.