Aouame sara
Journal: Medpeer Publisher
ISSN: 3066-2737
Volume: 3
Issue: 6
Date of Publication: 2026/06/07
Abstract
Background: Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is disproportionately prevalent in women of African descent. Data from Morocco and North Africa are absent, and predictors of left ventricular (LV) recovery in this population remain incompletely characterised.
Methods: Retrospective, observational, single-centre study (STROBE-compliant) of 60 consecutive PPCM patients (ESC 2019 Working Group criteria: LVEF <45%, onset last month of pregnancy or within 5 months postpartum, no prior identifiable cause), January 2018 – December 2023. Clinical, echocardiographic, and therapeutic data collected at baseline and 12 months. Multivariable logistic regression identified independent predictors of LV recovery (LVEF ≥50% at 12 months).
Results: Mean age was 28.6±6.4 years; 78% diagnosed postpartum. Risk factors: multiparity ≥3 (65%), anaemia (42%), hypertension (32%), pre-eclampsia (28%). Mean baseline LVEF was 27.4±8.2%. LV recovery at 12 months: 58% (n=35/60); mean LVEF improved from 27.4±8.2% to 46.8±11.4% (p<0.001). All-cause mortality: 10% (n=6). Independent predictors of LV recovery: baseline LVEF (OR 1.12/%; 95%CI 1.04–1.21; p=0.002), bromocriptine use (OR 3.4; 95%CI 1.3–8.9; p=0.013), pre-eclampsia (OR 0.32; 95%CI 0.12–0.88; p=0.027), and multiparity ≥3 (OR 0.38; 95%CI 0.15–0.96; p=0.041).
Conclusions: This first Moroccan PPCM series documents a severe profile with 10% mortality and 58% LV recovery. Bromocriptine is the strongest modifiable predictor of recovery. High-risk subgroups (pre-eclampsia, multiparity) require intensive management. A national MENA PPCM registry is urgently needed
Peripartum cardiomyopathy; Left ventricular recovery; Bromocriptine; Morocco; Echocardiography; Pre-eclampsia; Heart failure; Africa
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