Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 18, 2026

Real-Time Electrocardiogram Monitoring During Treadmill Training in Mice
Published on: May 5, 2022
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy in a squash player
Mathieu Berry1, Jerome Roncalli, Olivier Lairez
1Department of Cardiology, Rangueil University Hospital, 31059 Toulouse, France.
Insights
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy can occur after intense physical exertion, not just emotional stress. This case highlights physical activity as a trigger for this heart condition.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Sports Cardiology
Background:
- Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC) is typically associated with acute emotional stress.
- The condition, also known as stress-induced cardiomyopathy, involves temporary heart muscle dysfunction.
Observation:
- A 48-year-old woman presented with acute coronary syndrome symptoms after playing squash.
- Initial assessment revealed normal coronary arteries and signs suggestive of TTC, including apical ballooning.
Findings:
- Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging confirmed regional wall-motion abnormalities.
- Imaging was crucial in ruling out myocardial infarction, supporting the diagnosis of TTC due to physical stress.
Implications:
- Intensive physical activity, like squash, can induce significant myocardial workload.
- This case expands the understanding of TTC triggers, emphasizing the role of acute physical stress.
Abstract:
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is usually described following acute emotional stress. We report here the case of a 48-year-old woman admitted for acute coronary syndrome after an intensive squash match. Diagnosis of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy due to acute physical stress was suspected in presence of normal coronary arteries and transitory left ventricular dysfunction with typical apical ballooning. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging confirmed regional wall-motion abnormalities and was helpful in excluding myocardial infarction diagnosis. During squash the body is subject to sudden and vigorous demands inducing a prolonged and severe workload on the myocardium.
Related Concept Videos
Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy I: Introduction and Classification
Cardiomyopathy IV: Restrictive Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care
Myocarditis III: Medical Management
