A peripartum cardiomyopathy case treated with bromocriptine

Abstract

Introduction: Peripartum cardiomyopathy is a rare disease that is difficult to diagnose and treat. Clinical findings are similar with heart failure. New treatments are needed in addition to the treatment of heart failure. Case Report: A 32-year-old woman presented with symptoms of heart failure 4 days after first delivery. Chest X-ray showed cardiomegaly. Serum BNP level was high. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) indicated dilated left atrium and left ventricle, severe mitral regurgitation and ventricular dysfunction. The global longitudinal strain was – 9.1%. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed mid-myocardial staining detected in late phase images. Concomitant bromocriptine (2,5 mg po twice a day for 15 days and then 2,5 mg po once a day for 15 days) was used with standard heart failure therapy. At 6 months, TTE and cardiac MRI revealed normal biventricular function and size. Global longitudinal strain was –14%. Conclusion: Patients with peripartum cardiomyopathy may benefit from bromocriptine.