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Published on: February 17, 2018
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy: a case report
Sandeep Johar1, Heramba Prasad, Hani Kozman
1Department of Emergency Medicine, State University of New York (SUNY) Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York 13210, USA.
Insights
A woman experienced chest discomfort and elevated cardiac markers, leading to a diagnosis of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. This stress-induced condition mimicked a heart attack but with normal coronary arteries.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Psychocardiology
Background:
- Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC), or stress-induced cardiomyopathy, is an acute cardiac syndrome.
- It is often triggered by emotional or physical stress, presenting with symptoms mimicking myocardial infarction.
Observation:
- A 57-year-old woman presented with chest discomfort following a stressful court testimony.
- Electrocardiography (ECG) showed ST-segment elevation and T-wave inversions, indicative of acute cardiac injury.
- Cardiac biomarkers (creatine kinase, troponin I) were elevated, further suggesting myocardial damage.
Findings:
- Coronary angiography revealed unobstructed coronary arteries, ruling out obstructive coronary artery disease.
- A left ventricular angiogram identified an apical aneurysm, a characteristic finding in TTC.
- The patient was diagnosed with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy based on clinical presentation, ECG, biomarkers, and angiographic findings.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering TTC in patients with acute cardiac symptoms and normal coronary arteries, especially after significant emotional stress.
- Early diagnosis and management of TTC are crucial to prevent complications and ensure patient recovery.
- Understanding the link between psychological stress and cardiac events is vital for comprehensive patient care.
Abstract:
A 57-year-old Caucasian woman presented to the emergency department with chest discomfort after testifying in a child custody battle in court. Electrocardiography (ECG) revealed ST-segment elevation in the lateral leads, and T-wave inversions in the inferior and lateral leads. The creatine kinase, creatine kinase-MB, and troponin I concentrations were elevated on presentation. Despite the ECG changes and elevated cardiac markers, coronary angiography demonstrated normal arteries. Left ventricular angiogram revealed an aneurysm at the apex. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy was diagnosed on the basis of these characteristic findings. The patient was discharged on her third hospital day without any complications from the coronary angiography.
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