Peripartum cardiomyopathy and Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) associated cardiomyopathy: case series and review of literature

Abstract

Purpose: Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a rare complication of pregnancy manifesting with acute cardiac failure. Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) can be complicated by cardiomyopathy, which can be difficult to differentiate from PPCM. The aim of this publication is to investigate different outcomes of cases with cardiomyopathy during pregnancy. Methods: Here, we report 4 peripartum cases with COVID-19 and acute cardiac failure due to cardiomyopathy. Moreover, to find previous similar cases, a comprehensive review on PPCM and COVID-19 associated cardiomyopathy was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Google Scholar. Results: Out of 4 cases we had, two cases deceased and one became a candidate for heart transplant. Despite advanced diagnostic approaches, differentiating COVID-19 associated cardiomyopathy from PPCM was challenging. According to the literature review, 7 cases with similar conditions were found. Conclusion: Pregnant women with COVID-19 may develop acute cardiac failure associated with PPCM or COVID-19 associated cardiomyopathy or both. This condition may be deadly due to rapid disease progression, atypical manifestations, and limited treatment options.