Predictors of prognosis in patients with peripartum cardiomyopathy

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the long-term follow-up results of patients with peripartum cardiomyopathy and assess the echocardiographic findings relating to prognosis at time of diagnosis. METHODS: Thirty-three patients diagnosed with peripartum cardiomyopathy and hospitalized between 1995 and 2007 were analyzed. Initial echocardiographic data were recorded and long-term clinical status was evaluated. RESULTS: Eight (24%) patients recovered completely, 10 (30%) died, 2 (6%) underwent heart transplants, and 13 (39%) were left with persistent left ventricular dysfunction. Cut-off values for initial left ventricular end-systolic diameter (< or =5.5 cm) and left ventricular ejection fraction (>27%) were obtained from patients who had completely recovered. CONCLUSION: Cut-off values for initial left ventricular ejection fraction of >27% and left ventricular end-systolic diameter of < or =5.5 cm may predict recovery of left ventricle function.