Peripartum cardiomyopathy.

Peripartum cardiomyopathy is a rare and devastating disease of unknown etiology that manifests between the last trimester of pregnancy and five postpartum months. This disease often is confused with many other illnesses, and even with hemodynamic changes in normal pregnancy. Pathophysiology, signs, and symptoms of this unique cardiomyopathy are presented and case studies offered. Since outcome of this disease is directly related to duration of the illness, nurses must be aware of the symptoms and investigate them immediately. The nurse must support the patient and involve the family and social services in the patient's recovery.