DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2013.v01i06.0106

Pages: 1165-1171

Background: Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a rare but potentially life-threatening cardiac condition affecting women during late pregnancy or early postpartum period. This study aimed to analyze the incidence, clinical presentation, and fetomaternal outcomes of PPCM cases managed at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh. Methods: This observational study was conducted at the Department of Cardiology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh, over a period spanning July 2012 to June 2013. Total 50 consecutive patients diagnosed with PPCM according to the European Society of Cardiology Working Group criteria. Patients were evaluated for clinical presentation, cardiac parameters, treatment response, and both maternal and fetal outcomes. Comprehensive follow-up was conducted for six months post-diagnosis. Results: The mean maternal age was 28.5 ± 5.2 years, with 62% being multiparous. Sixty-eight percent of cases were diagnosed with postpartum. The mean left ventricular ejection fraction at presentation was 32.4 ± 8.6%. Maternal mortality rate was 8%, with major adverse cardiac events occurring in 32% of cases. Complete recovery of left ventricular function was achieved in 42% of patients at six months. The cesarean section rate was 76%, with a 28% incidence of preterm delivery and 6% neonatal mortality. Standard heart failure therapy demonstrated favorable outcomes, with 76% of patients showing improvement in three months. Conclusion: This study highlights the significant impact of PPCM on maternal and fetal outcomes in the Bangladeshi population. The findings emphasize the importance of early diagnosis, multidisciplinary management, and close monitoring of both mother and fetus. The relatively favorable recovery rates suggest that appropriate medical intervention can lead to positive outcomes, even in resource-limited settings. These results support the need for enhanced screening programs and region-