title: Peripartum cardiomyopathy: a review of the literature.
abstract: Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a poorly characterized, rare form of cardiomyopathy. The etiology of PPCM is unknown, but viral, autoimmune, and idiopathic causes may contribute. The presentation is similar to other forms of congestive heart failure; the diagnosis of PPCM should not be considered until other causes of cardiac dysfunction are ruled out. Echocardiography is central to diagnosis. Early diagnosis and initiation of treatment are essential to optimize pregnancy outcome. Intensivists and anesthesiologists should be consulted to assist with management in complicated cases. Management of PPCM is essentially supportive. Prognosis is poor, although cardiac transplant is improving prognosis and should be considered when conventional therapy fails.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  Obstetricians & Gynecologists, Family Physicians
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  After completion of this article, the reader will be able to understand the typical presentation of peripartum cardiomyopathy including adverse outcome predictors, to understand how to make the diagnosis of PPCM and how to manage it, and to understand the natural history of the disease.
authors.affiliation: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, 27599-7570 USA.
authors.forename: A L
authors.initials: AL
authors.lastname: Heider
authors.forename: J A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Kuller
authors.forename: R A
authors.initials: RA
authors.lastname: Strauss
authors.forename: S R
authors.initials: SR
authors.lastname: Wells
mesh_terms: D002311:Cardiomyopathy, Dilated / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D002316:Cardiotonic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005260:Female; D016027:Heart Transplantation; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy; D011249:Pregnancy Complications, Cardiovascular / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D011379:Prognosis; D011644:Puerperal Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D012008:Recurrence; D012307:Risk Factors; D016277:Ventricular Function, Left / Q000502:physiology
chemical_list: D002316:Cardiotonic Agents