Peripartum Cardiomyopathy in Obstetric Practice: A Case Series.

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Obstetrics
• Maternal Health

Background:

• Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a rare, life-threatening heart failure during late pregnancy or postpartum.
• Delayed diagnosis is common due to overlapping symptoms with normal pregnancy changes, increasing maternal risk.
• Diagnostic imaging, including chest X-ray and echocardiography, is vital for early PPCM recognition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the clinical presentation of PPCM in obstetric practice.
• To analyze diagnostic imaging findings, management approaches, and maternal outcomes.
• To emphasize the role of obstetric care in managing PPCM.

Main Methods:

• A case series of five women diagnosed with PPCM at a tertiary care hospital.
• Data collection included obstetric profile, heart failure symptoms, imaging results (chest X-ray, echocardiography), and treatment.
• Diagnosis confirmed by heart failure symptoms and imaging-evidence of left ventricular systolic dysfunction without prior heart disease.

Main Results:

• All patients presented with heart failure symptoms in late pregnancy or postpartum.
• Imaging revealed cardiomegaly, pleural effusion, and reduced ejection fraction (global left ventricular hypokinesia).
• Multidisciplinary management led to clinical improvement and survival in all cases.

Conclusions:

• PPCM is a significant contributor to maternal morbidity.
• Early suspicion, prompt imaging (chest X-ray, echocardiography), and collaborative care are crucial.
• Effective management improves maternal outcomes and reduces long-term cardiac issues.