Anticoagulation for intra-cardiac thrombi in peripartum cardiomyopathy: A review of the literature

Abstract

Peripartum cardiomyopathy is a type of non-ischemic cardiomyopathy with a high rate of thromboembolic events. Guiding strategies for anticoagulation in patients with peripartum cardiomyopathy and thromboembolic events are limited. Literature for all cases of peripartum cardiomyopathy with intracardiac thrombi were reviewed and summarized from twelve case reports. Based on the available literature, we conclude that patients with peripartum cardiomyopathy with ejection fraction of less than 30% should strongly consider anticoagulation therapy to avoid thromboembolic events. Future studies may be able to further elucidate the optimal indication and duration of anticoagulation.