Ace-Inhibitors block an enzyme in the body that is necessary to produce a substance that causes blood vessels to tighten. The relaxed blood vessels, as a result, increase the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart.

Autoantibodies are abnormal antibodies that work against the body's tissue.

Beta Blockers are drugs that block beta receptors, and sometimes alpha receptors. They lower blood pressure, decrease some heart arrhythmias, and lower the heart rate. Coreg has been shown in recent studies to include additional benefits over other Beta Blockers.

Biopsy is the process of taking a sample of tissue. In the case of a heart biopsy, a catheterization is done through either the groin or the neck to reach the heart. The tiny sample of heart tissue is retrieved and viewed in a laboratory.

Chest CT Scan - Computed tomography (also known as CT or CAT scanning) of the chest uses special equipment to obtain multiple cross-sectional images of the organs and tissues of the chest. CT produces images that are far more detailed than a conventional chest x-ray. CT is especially useful because it can simultaneously show many different types of tissue, including the lungs, heart, bones, soft tissues, muscle and blood vessels. Modern CT scans utilize a method called spiral (or helical) CT that captures images of the chest from many angles and, with the aid of a computer, processes the images to create cross-sectional pictures or "slices" of the area of interest. The images can then be printed out or examined on a monitor. CT scanning is considered to be a "patient-friendly" procedure because it involves relatively low radiation exposure and is not invasive. Contrast material is sometimes injected through a vein to make the blood vessels and soft-tissue masses stand out. During the CT examination patients usually lie flat on their back, but occasionally they may be asked to lie on their side or on their stomach. Patients are periodically asked to hold their breath. No preparation is required prior to the exam. Patients generally do not require a sedative to remain calm.


Chest Xray - A chest X ray may be done either lying down or standing up, and gives an internal image of the chest cavity.

Diuretics are drugs that drain the body of excess fluid. Some PPCM patients may have water retention issues and require diuretics on a regular basis, while others may not.

Digoxin helps the heart muscle beat strongly and more effectively. However, there are some people who should not take digoxin, and this should be discussed with the prescribing doctor.

Echocardiogram - (ECG) A Test that uses high-pitched sound waves to produce an image of the heart. The sound waves are sent through a device called a transducer and are reflected off the various structures of the heart. These echoes are converted into pictures of the heart that can be seen on a video monitor.

Electrocardiogram - (EKG) A Test that measures the electrical signals that control the rhythm of your heartbeat.

Holter Monitor -A device that is worn for hours or days to produce an EKG over an extended period of time.

MUGA - Multigated Acquisition Scan - A nuclear scan that evaluates the pumping function of the ventricles.

Myocarditis -Inflammation of the heart muscle.

Radiological - Involving radio-activity.

RNV - See MUGA above.

Selenium is a trace mineral that is essential to good health but required only in small amounts. Selenium is incorporated into proteins to make selenoproteins, which are important antioxidant enzymes. The antioxidant properties of selenoproteins help prevent cellular damage from free radicals. Free radicals are natural by-products of oxygen metabolism that may contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Other selenoproteins help regulate thyroid function and play a role in the immune system