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Published on: September 9, 2020
Critical takotsubo cardiomyopathy complicated by ventricular septal perforation
Tadao Aikawa1, Mamoru Sakakibara, Masayuki Takahashi
1Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan.
Insights
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, a stress-induced heart condition, can lead to rare but fatal complications like ventricular septal perforation. This case highlights the critical need for vigilant monitoring in patients with this diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
Background:
- Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC), or stress-induced cardiomyopathy, is typically characterized by transient left ventricular dysfunction.
- Complications are rare but can be severe, impacting patient outcomes.
Observation:
- An 81-year-old woman presented with chest pain, ST-segment elevation, and apical asynergy.
- Echocardiography and left ventriculography revealed a left-to-right ventricular shunt and apical ballooning.
- Coronary angiography excluded significant coronary artery stenosis.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy complicated by ventricular septal perforation and cardiogenic shock.
- Despite initial hemodynamic stabilization with inotropes and a prolonged QT interval, she developed fatal ventricular fibrillation.
- Ventricular septal perforation is a rare and critical complication of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of recognizing rare but life-threatening complications associated with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy.
- Prompt diagnosis and intensive monitoring are crucial for managing patients with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy and associated ventricular septal perforation.
- Further research into the mechanisms and optimal management of such severe complications is warranted.
Abstract:
An 81-year-old woman was admitted with chest pain. An electrocardiogram demonstrated ST segment elevation in leads II, III and aVF, and echocardiography revealed left ventricular apical asynergy with a left-to-right ventricular shunt. Meanwhile, emergent coronary angiography showed no significant coronary artery stenosis, whereas left ventriculography indicated apical ballooning and a left-to-right ventricular shunt. We therefore diagnosed the patient with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy complicated by ventricular septal perforation and cardiogenic shock. An electrocardiogram disclosed a prolonged QT interval over time, and the patient became hemodynamically stable under treatment with inotropes; however, she suddenly developed fatal ventricular fibrillation three days after hospitalization. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy complicated by ventricular septal perforation is a critical condition that requires careful monitoring.
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