Peripartum cardiomyopathy: clinical and therapeutic characteristics.
Peripartum cardiomyopathy occurs in from 1 in 3,000 to 1 in 4,000 pregnancies in the United States. Its clinical and hemodynamic findings are similar to idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy; however, peripartum cardiomyopathy shows a high incidence of myocarditis. Future studies will define the role of immune factors associated with the development of this disorder and will help in a better outcome for these patients.
Ventura
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Dept of Internal Medicine, Ochsner Medical Institutions, New Orleans, LA 70121.
D009202:Cardiomyopathies / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy; D011249:Pregnancy Complications, Cardiovascular / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D011644:Puerperal Disorders / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D012307:Risk Factors