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CARDIOVASCULAR JOURNAL OF AFRICA • Volume 26, No 2, March/April 2015
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AFRICA
prevent (further) pregnancy in women with proven or suspected
cardiac sarcoidosis.
Conclusion
Our two cases demonstrate that cardiac sarcoidosis may manifest
for the first time during pregnancy. Even though it is rare,
especially during pregnancy, it should be considered when
patients present with shortness of breath (on minimal effort)
and palpitations or arrhythmias. Early institution of steroid
therapy is warranted when this diagnosis is suspected due to the
increased risk for rhythm or conduction system disorders and
sudden death.
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