Peripartum Cardiomyopathy: Progress in Understanding the Etiology, Management, and Prognosis

Heart Fail Clin. 2019 Jan;15(1):29-39. doi: 10.1016/j.hfc.2018.08.004. Epub 2018 Oct 25.

Abstract

Occurring in approximately 1 in 1000 live births in the United States, peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is characterized by left ventricular ejection fraction reduced to less than 45% near the end of pregnancy or within the first 5 months after delivery. Although the cause of PPCM remains unclear, increasing evidence supports a complex interaction of genetic and environmental factors contributing to angiogenic imbalance, which may lead to myocardial dysfunction in a susceptible woman. This article reviews the progress that has been made regarding understanding of the cause, management, and natural history of PPCM.

Keywords: Diagnosis; Heart failure; Peripartum cardiomyopathy; Pregnancy; Prognosis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cardiomyopathies* / diagnosis
  • Cardiomyopathies* / etiology
  • Cardiomyopathies* / therapy
  • Disease Management
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications, Cardiovascular* / diagnosis
  • Pregnancy Complications, Cardiovascular* / therapy
  • Prognosis
  • Puerperal Disorders* / diagnosis
  • Puerperal Disorders* / etiology
  • Puerperal Disorders* / therapy
  • Ventricular Dysfunction, Left / diagnosis