Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is defined as heart failure developing in the last month of pregnancy or within how many months postpartum, with no identifiable cause, and LV ejection fraction typically below what threshold?

• A Within 5 months postpartum; EF <45% ✓
• B Within 3 months postpartum; EF <40%
• C Within 6 months postpartum; EF <55%
• D Within 12 months postpartum; EF <50%

Explanation

Peripartum cardiomyopathy is defined (Pearson criteria) as heart failure developing in the last month of pregnancy or within 5 months postpartum, in the absence of another identifiable cause, with echocardiographic evidence of LV systolic dysfunction — typically EF <45%. Prolactin-mediated cardiotoxicity (via 16 kDa cleaved form) is a proposed pathomechanism; bromocriptine is being studied as adjunctive therapy. Recovery of EF occurs in approximately 50% of cases.

Reference: Williams Obstetrics, 26th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.