Psilocybin-induced takotsubo cardiomyopathy

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Toxicology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) is a form of non-ischemic heart muscle dysfunction.
• Recreational psilocybin mushroom ingestion is increasingly prevalent.
• Cardiac complications from psilocybin are rarely reported.

Observation:

• A patient presented with acute respiratory distress and pulmonary edema after consuming Psilocybe semilanceata.
• Clinical presentation mimicked acute heart failure.
• Standard medical interventions were effective in managing the patient's condition.

Findings:

• Diagnostic investigations, including echocardiogram, cardiac MRI, and angiogram, confirmed takotsubo cardiomyopathy.
• This represents the second documented case of Psilocybe semilanceata-induced takotsubo cardiomyopathy in medical literature.
• The findings highlight a potential cardiotoxic effect of recreational magic mushroom consumption.

Implications:

• Clinicians should consider Psilocybe semilanceata ingestion in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with acute cardiac dysfunction.
• Further research is warranted to elucidate the mechanisms underlying psilocybin-induced cardiotoxicity.
• This case underscores the importance of comprehensive patient history, including recreational substance use, in managing cardiovascular emergencies.