Peripartum Cardiomyopathy in a Morbidly Obese Pregnant Woman: Case Report

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) represents a rare etiology of heart failure manifesting in women during the late gestational period or early postpartum phase. Despite several proposed pathophysiological mechanisms, the precise etiology of PPCM remains elusive, with current evidence supporting a multifactorial origin. Multiple definitions have been established to characterize this distinct clinical entity. Acute heart failure management in PPCM aligns with standard heart failure protocols, adjusted for pregnancy-specific risks. Early delivery is reserved for maternal or fetal compromise. Given the high recurrence risk, thorough contraceptive counseling is imperative. Prognosis is generally favorable, with >50% of patients achieving spontaneous LV function recovery within six months postpartum. The management of peripartum cardiomyopathy presents significant anesthetic and obstetric challenges, particularly in complicated cases, highlighting the complexity of perioperative care in such critical conditions.