[Peripartum cardiomyopathy and preeclampsia: an association with fatal outcome].

A 33-year-old obese gypsy woman was admitted in labor with signs of preeclampsia followed by sudden pulmonary edema and cardiac arrest. Cesarean delivery was performed during resuscitation maneuvers, but both mother and fetus died. The diagnosis of peripartum cardiomyopathy was confirmed by pathology. The association of latent peripartum cardiomyopathy and episodes of hypertension greatly increases the risk of maternal and fetal death. Careful management of anesthesia and rigorous measures are necessary with a view to possible litigation.