Revisiting Peripartum Cardiomyopathy: A Case Report and Review

Abstract

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a rare and idiopathic disease characterized by left ventricular dilation and systolic dysfunction, that occurs late in pregnancy or during the postpartum period. Diagnosis is typically achieved through transthoracic echocardiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Management includes standard heart failure therapies such as beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and diuretics, with the addition of bromocriptine to target the prolactin pathway involved in PPCM pathophysiology. This report presents a case of a 31-year-old female with a history of acute lymphoblastic leukemia who, following an uncomplicated pregnancy, presented with acute heart failure symptoms. Initial evaluations suggested pulmonary embolism, but further diagnostic workup, including echocardiography and cardiac MRI, confirmed PPCM. The patient was treated with diuretics, ACE inhibitors, and beta blockers. Significant improvement was observed, with complete resolution and normal cardiac function at the 6-month follow-up.