title: Peripartum cardiomyopathy.
abstract: 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.
authors.affiliation: Akron City Hospital.
authors.forename: M T
authors.initials: MT
authors.lastname: Hagley
authors.forename: S V
authors.initials: SV
authors.lastname: Mankad
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002311:Cardiomyopathy, Dilated / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D011644:Puerperal Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy