Respiratory-onset peripartum cardiomyopathy: a systematic review of diagnostic pitfalls and clinical outcomes.

In 30 seconds

This systematic review examined respiratory-onset presentations of peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) in late pregnancy and early postpartum women. It identified common misdiagnoses, including asthma and pneumonia, leading to delays in cardiac assessment. The review synthesized findings from 49 studies, highlighting that cardiogenic pulmonary edema with left-ventricular systolic dysfunction is a frequent underlying mechanism.

Key findings

• Respiratory symptoms in PPCM were often misattributed to asthma, pneumonia, or pulmonary embolism.
• Diagnostic delays were frequently reported, leading to severe clinical deterioration.
• Echocardiography and natriuretic peptides were effective in differentiating PPCM from primary respiratory conditions.

Why it matters

Understanding the respiratory-onset presentation of PPCM is crucial for timely diagnosis and management. Misdiagnosis can lead to significant delays in treatment, adversely affecting maternal outcomes during a critical period.