[Postpartum Takotsubo cardiomyopathy: case report].

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Obstetrics

Background:

• Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC) is a transient left ventricular dysfunction often triggered by emotional or physical stress, mimicking acute coronary syndromes.
• Its rarity necessitates a high index of suspicion for accurate diagnosis, particularly in obstetric settings where it can present unexpectedly.

Observation:

• A 39-year-old woman developed bradycardia, chest pain, and pulmonary edema immediately postpartum following Cesarean delivery.
• Echocardiography revealed apical ballooning and severe left ventricular dysfunction with anterior wall hypokinesia.
• Cardiac biomarkers and ECG were abnormal, but coronary angiography ruled out obstructive coronary artery disease.

Findings:

• The patient was diagnosed with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, a stress-induced cardiomyopathy.
• The condition presented acutely after Cesarean delivery, highlighting a potential trigger in the postpartum period.
• Treatment was supportive, with expected spontaneous reversal of cardiac dysfunction.

Implications:

• Obstetricians must be aware of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy for timely diagnosis and management of this critical condition in postpartum patients.
• Prompt recognition and supportive care can lead to complete recovery, though complications may alter the prognosis.
• This case underscores the importance of considering non-coronary causes of acute cardiac events in the peripartum period.