Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 25, 2026

Calcification of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells and Imaging of Aortic Calcification and Inflammation
08:43

Calcification of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells and Imaging of Aortic Calcification and Inflammation

Published on: May 31, 2016

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy caused by hypoglycemia: A unique association with coronary arterial calcification

Muhammad J Ansari, Abhiram Prasad, Patricia A Pellikka

    International Journal of Cardiology
    |February 24, 2009
    PubMed

    Insights

    This study presents a unique case of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy in a postmenopausal woman with hypoglycemia and cortisol excess. Coronary artery calcification was also observed, a novel association with Takotsubo syndrome.

    Area of Science:

    • Cardiology
    • Endocrinology
    • Internal Medicine

    Background:

    • Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC) is a stress-induced condition affecting the left ventricle.
    • Several triggers are known, but unique co-occurrences are continually being identified.

    Observation:

    • A postmenopausal woman presented with syncope, hypoglycemia, and elevated cardiac biomarkers.
    • Coronary angiography was negative for obstructive coronary artery disease.
    • The patient exhibited an unusual combination of hypoglycemia and cortisol excess, with normal urine catecholamines.

    Findings:

    • The patient was diagnosed with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, with left ventricular function improving within a week.
    • A unique association of coronary artery calcification with Takotsubo syndrome was observed in this case.
    • The co-occurrence of hypoglycemia and cortisol excess is unprecedented in reported Takotsubo cardiomyopathy literature.

    Implications:

    • The presence of coronary artery calcification may serve as a potential marker for risk assessment and recurrence prediction in Takotsubo cardiomyopathy.
    • Further research is warranted to validate the association between coronary artery calcification and Takotsubo syndrome and its prognostic implications.
    • This case highlights the importance of considering unusual endocrine profiles in the differential diagnosis of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy.

    More Related Videos

    Identifying Coronary Artery Calcification on Non-gated Computed Tomography Scans04:40

    Identifying Coronary Artery Calcification on Non-gated Computed Tomography Scans

    Published on: August 28, 2018

    Related Concept Videos

    Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy01:29

    Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

    Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or HCM, is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder characterized by asymmetric left ventricular hypertrophy without ventricular dilation. It is more common in men and is typically diagnosed in young, athletic adults.EtiologyHCM is primarily genetic and is caused by mutations in genes encoding sarcomeric proteins. Researchers have identified over 1400 mutations across at least 11 different genes. Among these, the most frequently occurring mutations are found in the...
    Coronary Artery Disease II: Pathophysiology01:26

    Coronary Artery Disease II: Pathophysiology

    Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) originates from a series of events that impair the function of coronary arteries, the blood vessels responsible for delivering oxygen-rich blood to the heart muscle. The pathophysiology of CAD is closely linked to atherosclerosis, a chronic inflammatory and lipid-driven condition affecting the vascular endothelium.1. Endothelial DamageThe process begins with damage to the vascular endothelium, which serves as a protective barrier between the blood and the vessel...
    Coronary Artery Disease I: Introduction01:30

    Coronary Artery Disease I: Introduction

    Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): An Overview with Scientific InsightsCoronary Artery Disease (CAD), often referred to as C-A-D, is a prevalent blood vessel disorder classified under the broader category of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a pathological process characterized by the hardening and narrowing of arteries due to the accumulation of atherosclerotic plaques. These plaques are composed of cholesterol, fatty substances, inflammatory cells, calcium, and fibrin, reducing blood flow to...
    Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations01:30

    Coronary Artery Disease III: Clinical Manifestations

    Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a primary health risk worldwide, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. The condition arises from the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques within the coronary arteries, resulting in diminished blood supply to the heart muscle.The clinical manifestations of CAD vary widely, from asymptomatic stages to severe, life-threatening conditions. Understanding these manifestations is crucial for early diagnosis and effective management.Angina Pectoris: The Warning...
    Cardiomyopathy I: Introduction and Classification01:25

    Cardiomyopathy I: Introduction and Classification

    Cardiomyopathy, or CMP, is a group of diseases affecting the myocardial structure, impairing its ability to pump blood effectively. This condition can lead to arrhythmias, heart failure, or sudden cardiac death.Cardiomyopathies are classified into primary and secondary categories:Primary Cardiomyopathy refers to conditions involving only the heart muscle that are often idiopathic (of unknown cause) or genetic. They primarily affect the myocardium without the involvement of other systemic...
    Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy01:30

    Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy

    Dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, is a progressive myocardial disorder characterized by ventricular chamber dilation and contractile dysfunction.EtiologyVarious factors can cause DCM, including hypertension and heavy alcohol intake, which contribute to the weakening and enlargement of the heart muscle. Viral infections, such as Coxsackievirus B, adenoviruses, and influenza, can lead to DCM by causing inflammation and damage to heart tissue. Certain chemotherapeutic agents, including daunorubicin,...