Open Access: View PDF

DOI: DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.21088/ijog.2321.1636.6218.20

Abstract

Introduction: Peripartum cardiomyopathy is an idiopathic and reversible form of dilated cardiomyopathy. It is defined as systolic heart failure in the last month of pregnancy or within 5 months of delivery. With an unknown etiology it can be fatal in young women but with prompt diagnosis and intensive supportive measures, it can be treated well with good prognosis. Although the prognosis of PPCM is favorable, misdiagnosis or delay in diagnosis leads to deadly consequences to the patient and thus high maternal morbidity and mortality. We present 5 cases of peripartum cardiomyopathy which presented to our hospital in a span of 6 months who were promptly diagnosed, bettter managed with good prognosis in all the patients.Hence high index of suspicion and vigilance required by the treating physician to facilitate timely recognition, intervention, and management of peripartum complications.

Keywords: Peripartum Cardiomyopathy (PPCM); Cardiac Disease in Pregnancy; Dilated Cardiomyopathy; Maternal Mortality. 

Corresponding Author : Neelamma Patil, Associate Professor, Department of obstetrics and gynecology, Shri BM Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, BLDE University Vijayapur, Karnataka 586103.