Left ventricular function in peripartum cardiomyopathy.

Although many cases of peripartum cardiomyopathy have been reported in the literature, detailed data from left heart catheterization and contrast ventriculography are unavailable. A patient with peripartum cardiomyopathy had catheterization performed to clarify the diagnosis. Hemodynamics at rest and with exercise, angiographic volumes, and indices of left ventricular function are presented.

Cardiac sarcoidosis. A case with unusual manifestation.

A 26-year-old woman was hospitalized with new-onset congestive heart failure. M-mode and two-dimensional echocardiography revealed abnormal motion involving the apex and posterolateral wall of the left ventricle. Cardiac catheterization was performed.

Metoprolol overdose.

We report the first two documented cases of the deliberate metoprolol overdose occurring in the United States, one of which eventually proved fatal. The potentially lethal cardiotoxic effects of this drug are illustrated and correlated with the blood and tissue levels of metoprolol. We emphasize the often sudden and rapid clinical deterioration which excessive ingestion of this drug may produce, and the need for close, careful supervision and monitoring of these patients.