Recovery from severe heart failure following peripartum cardiomyopathy

Objectives

Traditional concepts surrounding peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) hold that if recovery does not occur within 6 months of diagnosis, it is unlikely to happen. The purpose of the study was to determine the length of time required for recovery of left ventricular systolic function.

Methods

Patients were identified from the Hôpital Albert Schweitzer PPCM Registry over the period 2000-2008. Echocardiography was carried out at diagnosis and every 6 months thereafter. Recovery of systolic heart function was defined as left ventricular ejection fraction greater than 0.50.

Results

Thirty-two out of 116 (27.6%) PPCM patients reached recovery levels, with 75% of patients taking over 12 months to recover. Shortest time to recovery was 3 months and longest time to recovery was 48 months.

Conclusion

Recovery of left ventricular systolic function in PPCM patients often requires longer than 6-12 months following diagnosis. It is important to continue effective treatment and follow-up for a sufficient period to assure maximum benefit.