Peripartum cardiomyopathy

We report a case of peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) with a literature review. Although PPCM is an uncommon form of cardiomyopathy, it sometimes occurs in women of childbearing age and thus should be considered in a woman who develops heart failure in the peripartum period. The diagnosis is based on a compatible clinical picture and exclusion of other potential causes. Risk factors include being black, over 30 years old, and multiparous, as well as having preeclampsia or hypertension or a multiple birth. The cause is unknown but may be multifactorial. Treatment is similar to that for other dilated cardiomyopathies; steroids and immunosuppressive agents may be useful in some circumstances. Outcome is variable with a long-term survival rate of about 50%. Patients who survive usually have few symptoms.