CASE REPORT: PERIPARTUM CARDIOMYOPATHY, A RARE BUT FATAL CONDITION IN PREGNANCY AND PUERPERIUM

Abstract

Peripartum Cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a rare but potentially deadly heart condition that occurs in previously healthy young women during late pregnancy or shortly after giving birth. It is marked by a weakening of the heart’s left ventricle without any other known heart issues. PPCM has high rates of illness and death, making it one of the leading causes of maternal mortality. Despite significant progress in understanding PPCM over the past few decades, many questions about its underlying causes, diagnosis, and treatment remain unanswered. Although PPCM is rare, it needs quick and careful management. Early detection and timely treatment are crucial in lowering the risk of death for mothers. In this case report a 32-year-old woman, seven days postpartum, presented with acute shortness of breath, chest pain, and fever. Her medical history included smoking, class II obesity, pre-eclampsia, and HELLP syndrome. Clinical examination revealed persistent tachycardia and mild lung crepitation. Imaging and lab results indicated bilateral pulmonary congestion, elevated CRP, and a severely dilated left ventricle with an ejection fraction of 31%. She was diagnosed with congestive cardiac failure and managed with diuretics, beta-blockers, and ACE inhibitors. Post-treatment, the patient improved and was discharged with plans for cardiac MRI and genetic testing. This case is important for the diagnostic challenges of postpartum cardiomyopathy and the long-term follow-up to mitigate chronic heart failure risk.