Inflammatory markers – Serum level of TNF-α and IL6 as predictors of outcome for peripartum cardiomyopathy

Aim/objectivePeripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a disorder of unknown aetiology. We correlated plasma levels of C-reactive protein TNF-α and IL6 as prognostic value for major clinical in-hospital events and 6-month follow-up in patients with PPCM.Material and methodsA total of 86 subjects were enrolled [patients (n-46) and controls (n-40)]. Clinical assessment, echocardiography, and blood analysis and inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein, TNF-α and IL6) were measured at baseline and at 6 months.ResultsThe baseline characteristics of the study population at first presentation are similar (compared with controls) 0.91% were diagnosed as PPCM patients for the first time and 49% patients presented within 1 month after delivery. C-reactive protein (22 mg/dl vs 08 mg/dl), TNF-α (9.6 vs 3.2 pg/dl) and IL6 were (73.19 ± 34.4 vs 31.52 ± 8.83 pg/dl) which were significantly abnormal, and these patients showed a significant higher LV dimensions LV EDD (61.6 ± 7.1 mm vs 46 ± 9 mm), LV ESD (53.1 ± 7 vs 32 ± 8) and significant lower echocardiography LVEF (25.9 ± 8.2 vs 55 ± 12) and well correlate with NYHA FC and death. LVEF improved from 25.9 ± 8.2 to 42.9 + 13.6% at 6 months (P < 0.0001). LVEF (>50%) was only observed in 11 (35%) patients. Seven patients died within 6 months of diagnoses.ConclusionInflammatory markers like CRP, IL6 TNF-α were significantly elevated in PPCM patients and correlated with increased LV dimensions and lower EF and higher NYHA FC were the only predictors of mortality at presentation and inflammation may contribute to the pathogenesis of PPCM and its complications.