Takotsubo cardiomyopathy causing transitory ventricular dysfunction

Angele A Alves1, Ingrid Kowatsch, Jeane Mike Tsutsui

  • 1Instituto do Coração (InCor)- HCFMUSP - São Paulo, SP - Brazil.

Insights

This case report details reversible stress cardiomyopathy in a patient presenting with acute coronary syndrome symptoms. The condition, characterized by a Takotsubo-like shape, resolved within two weeks, highlighting its temporary nature.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Internal Medicine
  • Pathophysiology

Background:

  • Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) symptoms necessitate prompt cardiac evaluation.
  • Systemic hypertension and peripheral vascular disease are common comorbidities.
  • Coronary angiography is crucial for ruling out obstructive coronary artery disease.

Observation:

  • A 74-year-old female presented with ACS symptoms but had no significant coronary obstructions.
  • Initial ventriculography and echocardiography revealed mid and apical left ventricular akinesia with basal hyperkinesia.
  • The left ventricle exhibited a temporary Takotsubo-like shape.

Findings:

  • A follow-up echocardiogram two weeks later showed normalization of global and regional systolic function.
  • The observed pattern of transient systolic dysfunction is characteristic of stress cardiomyopathy.
  • This indicates a reversible myocardial impairment not caused by epicardial coronary artery disease.

Implications:

  • Stress cardiomyopathy, also known as Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, is a distinct clinical entity.
  • It presents with reversible left ventricular dysfunction mimicking myocardial infarction.
  • Early recognition and understanding of its transient nature are vital for appropriate patient management.

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