Takotsubo cardiomyopathy triggered by a single dose of flecainide in patient with focal atrial tachycardia

Abstract

First described in 1990, Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TC) is a medical condition defined by acute and transient left ventricular (LV) dysfunction with a diversity of wall-motion abnormalities. TC can be induced by emotional and physical stress, as well as direct administration of catecholamines or medications which can cause a catecholamine surge. Although recorded incidences of TC have been rising over the last decade (currently 15–30 cases per 100,000 per year), this is most likely due to increased awareness and recognition of the condition. Electrocardiogram (ECG), imaging modalities such as echocardiography, coronary computed tomography angiography, cardiac magnetic resonance, and coronary angiography are important tools in the diagnosis of TC. The in-hospital mortality rate for patients admitted with TC reaches 5%. In our report, we describe a case of TC in a 30-years old female with a medical history of episodes of focal atrial tachycardia (AT) after intravenous administration of a single, maximum dose of flecainide.