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Research Article| Volume 10, ISSUE 2, P157-161, March 1992

Peripartum cardiomyopathy: A case report

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/0736-4679(92)90210-K
Peripartum cardiomyopathy: A case report
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      Abstract

      Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a relatively rare form of acute heart failure. Onset is from the last trimester of pregnancy to 5 months postpartum. Diagnosis is made by excluding other causes of acute heart failure, such as infections or toxins, and by determining that the patient does not have an underlying cardiac problem that has been unmasked by pregnancy. Diagnosis in the last trimester is complicated by the fact that the early symptoms of this disorder may mimic the symptoms of normal pregnancy. PPCM must be considered in any patient who presents with new onset peripheral edema, dyspnea on exertion, or paroxysmal nocturnal dyspnea during late pregnancy or up to 5 months postpartum. Limited studies suggest that early and aggressive therapy is associated with a better outcome. Therapy is directed toward decreasing preload and improving cardiac function. Return of cardiac size to normal is associated with a better prognosis than continued cardiomegaly.

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      Article info

      Publication history

      Accepted: September 17, 1991
      Received in revised form: September 3, 1991
      Received: January 14, 1991

      Identification

      DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/0736-4679(92)90210-K

      Copyright

      © 1992 Published by Elsevier Inc.

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