Peripartum Cardiomyopathy (PPCM): How to Diagnose and Deal with?

Monika Sitio,Novi Kurnianingsih,Heny Martini,Cholid Tri Tjahjono

doi:10.21776/ub.hsj.2021.002.01.08

Abstract

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a diagnosis of exclusion, where patients present with heart failure (HF) secondary to left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction without any other cause of HF identified in the last month of pregnancy or within first five months after delivery, abortion, or miscarriage. PPCM is a life-threatening condition which frequently under diagnosed and inadequately treated, whereas the morbidity and mortality rate ranges between 7% and 50%. Early diagnosis is important to decrease morbidity and mortality. Therefore, it is necessary to report the case related to this condition. A 34-year-old woman was referred to RSSA with worsening shortness of breath (SOB). She has given birth about 2.5 months prior to admission. History taking and supporting findings form this case were supported to diagnosis of PPCM. She was treated with diuretic, aldosterone antagonist, ACE-I, beta blocker, anticoagulant, and bromocriptine. The symptoms were improved in the following days. She was discharged with better condition and educated to comply with medication.

Highlights

PPCM is defined as idiopathic cardiomyopathy developing in the last month of pregnancy or within the first five months after delivery, abortion, or miscarriage
Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM), a diagnosis of exclusion, is identified with the presentation of heart failure (HF) secondary to left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction without any other cause of HF recognized in the last month of pregnancy or within first five months after delivery, abortion, or miscarriage
This case report aims to describe the importance of early diagnosis and treatment in PPCM Case Illustration: A 34-year-old woman was referred to RSSA with worsening shortness of breath (SOB)

Summary

Introduction

PPCM is defined as idiopathic cardiomyopathy developing in the last month of pregnancy or within the first five months after delivery, abortion, or miscarriage. Other findings in echocardiography may include left atrial or biatrial enlargement, right ventricular dilatation and dysfunction, pulmonary hypertension, functional mitral and tricuspid regurgitation, and intracardiac thrombus. A patient with PPCM was reported in this case. She has suffered from shortness of breath (SOB) while doing heavy activities since 2.5 months ago. She did not take any medical care. Because of worsening SOB, she brought to RSSA and diagnosed with PPCM. Her condition improved during care and discharged with appropriate condition

Case Illustration

Discussion

Conclusion

Declarations