The Role of NT-proBNP in the Diagnosis of Peripartum Cardiomyopathy with Multiple Left Ventricular Thrombus: A Case Report

Yashinta Octavian Gita Setyanda (Clinical Pathology Resident, Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Andalas, Padang, Indonesia)
Rismawati Yaswir (Staff, Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Andalas, Padang, Indonesia)

Bioscientia Medicina : Journal of Biomedicine and Translational Research
Vol. 8 No. 10 (2024): Bioscientia Medicina: Journal of Biomedicine & Translational Research

Background: Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a rare but serious condition characterized by left ventricular dysfunction in late pregnancy or early postpartum. Early diagnosis is essential to prevent complications such as thromboembolism. N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is a promising biomarker for the diagnosis of PPCM. Case presentation: An 18-year-old female presented with progressive shortness of breath and generalized edema. Physical examination and echocardiography revealed acute heart failure with multiple left ventricular thrombus. Very high levels of NT-proBNP (1,796 pg/mL) supported the diagnosis of PPCM. The patient was successfully treated with standard heart failure therapy and anticoagulants. Conclusion: This case report highlights the importance of NT-proBNP in the early diagnosis of PPCM and detecting of thromboembolic complications. Significant increases in NT-proBNP levels, even without obvious symptoms, should be promptly evaluated for PPCM, especially in high-risk populations.