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Peripartum cardiomyopathy: a review
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Peripartum cardiomyopathy: a review

Corina Iorgoveanu, Ahmed Zaghloul and Mahi Ashwath
Heart failure reviews, Vol.26(6), pp.1287-1296
11/01/2021
DOI: 10.1007/s10741-020-10061-x
PMCID: PMC8510921
PMID: 34138401
url
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10741-020-10061-xView
Published (Version of record) Open Access

Abstract

Peripartum cardiomyopathy is a form of idiopathic systolic heart failure which occurs during the end of pregnancy or the early post-partum in the absence of an identifiable etiology. The exact pathogenesis remains unknown, and the incidence is higher in African ancestry, multiparous and hypertensive women, or older maternal age. Delay in diagnosis is common, mainly because symptoms of heart failure mimic those of normal pregnancy. Echocardiography showing decreased myocardial function is at the center of the diagnosis. Management relies on the general guidelines of management of other forms of non-ischemic cardiomyopathy; however, special attention should be paid when choosing medications to ensure fetal safety. Outcomes can be variable and can range from complete recovery to persistent heart failure requiring transplant or even death. High rates of relapse with subsequent pregnancies can occur, especially with incomplete myocardial recovery. Additional research about the etiology, experimental drugs, prognosis, and duration of treatment after recovery are needed.
Cardiac & Cardiovascular Systems Cardiovascular System & Cardiology Life Sciences & Biomedicine Science & Technology

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