Abstract

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is defined as the onset of acute heart failure without demonstrable cause in the last trimester of pregnancy or within the first 6 months after delivery. Mortality from PPCM ranges from 25% to 50% and cause of death is usually chronic congestive heart failure or thromboembolic complications. We experienced 2 patients with PPCM. One was a twin pregnant woman and PPCM was developed after cesarean section. In the other case, PPCM was combined with aspiration pneumonia in the preterm labor patient. They were treated with diuretics and cardiotonic drugs and recovered to normal cardiac function within 7 to 10 days. Prognosis is related to recovery of left ventricular function, which usually occurs within 6 months postpartum. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment of PPCM improve outcome.

• Keywords: Complications;aspiration pneumonia;pulmonary edema. Pregnancy;cesarean section;peripartum cardiomyopathy;