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[Stress-induced transient left ventricular apical ballooning].
Paolo Sganzerla1, Elena Perlasca, Bruno Passaretti
1U.O. di Cardiologia, Humanitas Gavazzeni, Bergamo. paolo.sganzerla@gavazzeni.it
Summary
Transient left ventricular apical ballooning, or tako-tsubo syndrome, is a rare cardiomyopathy. This report details a unique case in an Italian man experiencing stress and cold-water immersion.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
Background:
- Transient left ventricular apical ballooning, also known as tako-tsubo cardiomyopathy, is a rare condition primarily observed in the Japanese population.
- It is characterized by a distinct apical ballooning shape on ventriculography, resembling a Japanese octopus trap (tako-tsubo).
Observation:
- A case study of a 78-year-old Italian man presenting with symptoms mimicking acute coronary syndrome is described.
- The patient experienced acute emotional and physical stress, including falling from a boat into cold lake water, resulting in chest and head trauma.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited acute left ventricular dysfunction with the characteristic apical ballooning pattern on ventriculography.
- Coronary angiography revealed normal epicardial coronary arteries, ruling out obstructive coronary artery disease.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for significant catecholamine surge due to combined emotional, physical, and cold-water stress to induce myocardial injury.
- The occurrence of this typically Japanese syndrome in an Italian patient following a unique stressor broadens the understanding of its potential triggers and geographical distribution.