A Case of Recurrent Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy: Not a Benign Entity

Abstract

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is a relatively uncommon condition triggered by severe physical and/or emotional stress. It is characterized by transient ventricular wall dysfunction in the absence of coronary artery disease (CAD). Herein, we report a case of a 59-year-old female who had three episodes of recurrent Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. On each occasion, she presented with symptoms of acute coronary syndrome accompanied by left ventricular wall motion abnormalities; however, repeat cardiac catheterization failed to show CAD. Each recurrence resulted in resolution of her symptoms and recovery of left ventricular function. While emotional triggers were identified, on two occasions, the patient presented with ventricular fibrillation for which an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) was ultimately placed. We encourage clinicians to no longer look at Takotsubo cardiomyopathy as a benign, reversible disease process, but rather as a pathological entity with real, life-threatening complications that may be managed with ICD placement. J Med Cases. 2018;9(3):98-102 doi: https://doi.org/10.14740/jmc3011w