Postpartum cardiomyopathy is an uncommon, but well-known, complication of pregnancy. Postpartum cardiomyopathy is an inflammatory reaction of unknown cause that results in damage to heart tissue. It alters the structure and contractility of the heart, leading to heart failure in an otherwise cardiac-healthy woman. A presentation two weeks postpartum militates highly in favor of this diagnosis. The prognosis is usually excellent with a full recovery of over 95% of patients with conservative therapy, including medical treatment alone. Biopsy is not indicated for the diagnosis or treatment of cardiomyopathy unless the diagnosis is in doubt and/or the patient refractory to medical treatment. Biopsy carries with it a risk of cardiac perforation Therefore, biopsy should only be performed when it is needed to direct or change medical therapy.
Postpartum cardiomyopathy obstetrics, maternal-fetal medicine, maternal-fetal pathology, cardiology, and emergency medicine.