Atypical form of left ventricular ballooning after a violent attack

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Clinical Case Reports

Background:

• Apical ballooning syndrome, also known as stress-induced cardiomyopathy, presents as acute left ventricular apical akinesia.
• It is characterized by ECG changes and minimal troponin elevation, often mimicking acute myocardial infarction.
• Coronary angiography typically reveals no significant obstructive coronary artery disease.

Observation:

• This report details an atypical presentation of apical ballooning syndrome in a 70-year-old woman.
• The patient experienced symptoms following a violent physical attack.
• The case highlights a less common trigger for this cardiac condition.

Findings:

• The patient exhibited transient apical akinesia consistent with apical ballooning syndrome.
• Electrocardiographic abnormalities and cardiac enzyme levels were observed.
• The absence of coronary artery stenosis was confirmed via angiography.

Implications:

• This case expands the understanding of potential triggers for apical ballooning syndrome, including severe emotional and physical trauma.
• It underscores the importance of considering stress-induced cardiomyopathy in patients presenting with acute cardiac symptoms, even with atypical histories.
• Further research into the pathophysiology and diverse triggers of this reversible cardiomyopathy is warranted.