Apical Akinesis Research Articles

When to consider takotsubo cardiomyopathy in menopausal elderly woman presenting chest pain

Background: An elderly menopausal woman presenting with chest pain in the emergency department may have coronary artery disease (CAD), Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, or other conditions. It is crucial to conduct a thorough diagnostic evaluation in menopausal elderly woman. Case illustration: A 77-year-old postmenopausal woman presenting with first-onset chest pain after having familial issues and severe psychological stress was admitted to the emergency department. She had no identifiable risk factors for CAD, and her physical examination revealed no significant abnormalities. The electrocardiogram (ECG) indicated non-specific ST-segment elevation in leads V3-V6. Serial ECGs showed an evolution of ST-segment elevation that did not align with the typical pattern observed in STEMI. Despite the elevation in cardiac enzymes in the previous hospital, unfortunately, serial cardiac enzymes were inconsistently normal in our hospital. Therefore, these findings implied that the patient's condition might not be ACS, and we cannot rule out the possibility of Takotsubo syndrome. The patient underwent coronary angiography (DCA) and The DCA results revealed normal coronary with suspicion of apical ballooning of the left ventricle as observed from cine angiography. Subsequent echocardiography demonstrated apical akinesis with basal hyperkinesis, the large area of dysfunctional myocardium extending beyond the territory of a single coronary artery and characteristic apical ballooning resembling an octopus trap, consistent with the diagnosis of Takotsubo syndrome. The patient was managed conservatively with supportive care. Her symptoms improved, and she was discharged after five days. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of considering takotsubo cardiomyopathy in menopausal elderly woman with no risk factor of CAD presenting with chest pain after having psychological stress. Keywords: Takotsubo Syndrome, Acute Coronary Syndrome, octopus trap, stress induced cardiomyopathy, Cathecolamine induced

Abstract 4138546: From Nature’s Remedy to Cardiac Emergency: A Case of Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy Induced by High-Dose Berberine Supplementation

Introduction: Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) is a reversible cardiac condition often precipitated by emotional or physical stress. Certain medications have also been implicated. While prognosis is generally favorable, associated QTc prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias can be life threatening, necessitating identification of potential triggers. This report highlights TCM in a patient using high-dose berberine, a plant alkaloid known for its hypoglycemic properties. Case description: A 69-year-old female with a history of type 2 diabetes mellitus, and hyperlipidemia presented after a syncopal event. It was preceded by sudden onset of dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. She had been using berberine for a year to lower her blood sugar and had recently switched to a higher dose of a more potent formulation. Vitals were unremarkable. Initial evaluation revealed a prolonged QTc interval of 659 ms (Figure 1A) and elevated troponin-I levels. She was treated with intravenous magnesium, which improved her QTc to 540 ms and revealed new T-wave inversions in the precordial leads. Echocardiogram showed an ejection fraction (EF) of 35%, with LV apical akinesia and hypercontractile basal segments. Cardiac catheterization ruled out significant coronary artery disease, leading to a diagnosis of TCM. Berberine was discontinued, and guideline-directed medical therapy was initiated. Given the presentation with syncope and high suspicion of aborted sudden cardiac death (SCD), she was discharged with a wearable cardioverter-defibrillator (WCD) as a precaution due to the risk of ventricular arrhythmias during recovery. At her 8-week follow-up, QTc and EF had normalized (Figure 1B), prompting WCD removal. Conclusion: The pathophysiology of berberine-induced cardiomyopathy remains uncertain and requires further research. This case underscores the importance of recognizing the potential cardiotoxic effects of berberine, particularly when used in high doses. A thorough medication and supplement history is crucial in patients presenting with unexplained cardiac symptoms. The reversible nature of TCM, when promptly recognized and treated, highlights the need for comprehensive follow-up to ensure recovery of cardiac function.

7659 Iodinated Contrast Induced Thyrotoxicosis Leading to Takotsubu Cardiomyopathy

Abstract Disclosure: A. Jain: None. E. Naous: None. S. Sedrakyan: None. A.T. Sweeney: None. Background: Thyrotoxicosis may cause many cardiovascular manifestations including tachycardia, hypertension, atrial fibrillation and heart failure. Iatrogenic exposure to iodinated contrast media (ICM) precipitating iodine induced thyrotoxicosis (or the Jod-Basedow phenomenon) is often overlooked. Here, we describe a case of iodine induced thyrotoxicosis leading to takotsubu cardiomyopathy, following multiple exposures to ICM. Case Presentation: An 88-year-old male with a history of hypertension, dyslipidemia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and an ED visit one month ago for hemoptysis for which a CT Angiography (CTA) of the chest was obtained (which excluded Pulmonary Embolism(PE)), presented with fever and shortness of breath. On physical examination his temperature was 100.3F, heart rate was 104bpm, blood pressure 130/62mmHg, respiratory rate was 20/min and saturation was 88% (room air). He was frail but his examination was otherwise unremarkable. Electrocardiogram (EKG) revealed sinus tachycardia. Chest CTA excluded PE. Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) showed an ejection fraction (EF) of 73% and no wall motion abnormalities. He was admitted to the hospital for a viral upper respiratory infection and was treated conservatively with bronchodilators. Odynophagia prompted a CT with contrast of the neck soft tissue, which was unrevealing. He was planned to be discharged the next day, but overnight developed severe abdominal pain, and atrial fibrillation with a rapid ventricular response (Troponin t was 191 ng/L (normal {nl}: <9 ng/L)). EKG showed new T-wave inversions in the anterolateral leads, raising a suspicion of myocardial ischemia. A repeated TTE revealed a new drop in EF from 73 to 41%, with new apical akinesis, suspicious for takotsubo cardiomyopathy. CT of the abdomen with contrast was unrevealing. Lab results showed a suppressed TSH of <0.01uIU/mL (nl: 0.34-5.60 uIU/mL), elevated FT4 of 13ng/dL (nl: 0.93-1.70 ng/dL), and TSI 4.97 IU/ L (nl: 0-0.55 IU/ L). Endocrinology was consulted. His thyroid examination was normal, and he had no eye findings. Neck ultrasound revealed a homogeneous thyroid gland without any nodules. His clinical course was consistent with the diagnosis of acute thyrotoxicosis precipitating takotsubu cardiomyopathy. He likely developed iodine induced thyrotoxicosis from multiple exposures to ICM, in a background of previously undiagnosed Graves’ disease. Discussion: Screening for thyroid disease is critical in patients with new onset tachyarrhythmias and stress cardiomyopathy. Iodine induced thyrotoxicosis typically presents after patients with underlying thyroid disease are exposed to iodinated contrast. Prior to ordering studies requiring ICM, it is important to thoroughly evaluate patients for possible pre-existing thyroid disease. Presentation: 6/2/2024

Generation of a heterozygous Calsequestrin 2 F189L iPSC line (UMGi158-B) by CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing to investigate the cardiac pathophysiology of Takotsubo Syndrome and Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia

Takotsubo Syndrome (TTS) is a potentially life-threatening disease characterized by a transient left ventricular apical akinesia in response to β-adrenergic overstimulation. Since a genetic predisposition is assumed, we generated an iPSC-line carrying a p.F189L mutation in the calcium buffering protein Calsequestrin 2 (CasQ2). This missense mutation was previously discovered in a TTS patient and further described in a family with Catecholaminergic Polymorphic Ventricular Tachycardia (CPVT). The established cell line is used to investigate the main mechanisms leading to TTS and CPVT using a patient-specific stem cell approach.

Clinical characteristics and prognostic importance of anticoagulant use in ischemic left ventricular aneurysm: a retrospective cohort study

There is insufficient data on systemic embolic events (SSEs) in patients with ischemic left ventricular aneurysm (LVA) concerning the impact of anticoagulation therapy. In this retrospective cohort study with 1043 patients with ischemic LVA, SSEs occurred in 7.2% over 2.4 years. After adjusting for relevant factors, the use of anticoagulants was independently associated with a lower incidence of SSE (3.1% vs. 9.0%, P < 0.001; subdistribution hazard ratios (SHR) 0.21, 95% confidence intervals (CI) 0.10-0.44, P < 0.001), with no significant difference in net adverse clinical events (NACEs) (10.6% vs. 13.3%, P = 0.225). Specifically, anticoagulation in patients with apical segment akinesis significantly reduced SSEs (3.9% vs. 13.6%, P = 0.002) and NACE rates (7.8% vs. 19.4%, P = 0.002). Major bleeding rates did not significantly differ between groups (5.6% vs. 3.5%, P = 0.111). These findings highlight the SSE risk in ischemic LVA and suggest potential benefits of anticoagulation, particularly in those with apical segment akinesis. These findings need to be validated in independent datasets.

IS IT REALLY A CASE OF TAKOTSUBO? SOMETIMES APPEARENCES CAN BE DECEPTIVE

Abstract We report the case of a 22–year–old female with a history of David procedure and mechanical valve replacement (ATS 22 mm) due to bicuspid aortic valve and severe AR with ascending aorta aneurysm in 2015. Regular annual clinical follow–up (EKG and ultrasound) was always normal. Since 2022 the patient suffered from episodes of dyspnea, chest pain and sadness diagnosed as Panic Disorder. Home–therapy: Warfarin, estroprogestinic pill. At the latest outpatient visit she was asymptomatic and in good overall condition, but her EKG showed novel alterations (T wave inversion in antero–lateral leads and QT prolongation). She was then sent to the ED. LAB: troponin levels were normal (6.8 ng/ml) with an elevated Nt–proBNP (425 ng/ml) and a low INR (1.53). Questioned about recent events she reported a road trauma which occurred two weeks prior. She was then admitted to Cardiology clinic. Ultrasound: apical akinesia with reduced wall thickness, EF 48%, E/E‘ 10, and normal right ventricular function. The aortic valve prosthesis was functional without pathological regurgitation, and other echocardiographic parameters were within normal limits. EKG and ultrasound abnormalities along with a recent history of trauma supported Takotsubo Syndrome diagnosis (InterTAK score = 79.8% – 67pt), even though troponin levels were normal. Throughout hospitalization there were no changes in the EKG or pathological increases in troponin, and the patient remained asymptomatic. The patient was treated with LMWH to achieve adequate INR levels and initiated on B–blocker, ACEi, and SGLT2i for HFmrEF. Cardiac MRI revealed apical segment akinesia with dilation and reduced wall thickness (EDV 97 ml/m²), EF 41%, transmural ischemic LGE in the apical region and a ventricular thrombus (16x4 mm). The patient underwent coronary angiography which showed normal epicardial coronary arteries. Upon careful history–taking, the patient admitted irregular intake of VKA in the previous months. Given this information, the MRI and angiographic findings the diagnosis of unrecognized prior acute coronary syndrome, likely due to coronary thromboembolism in a patient with PHV and suboptimal compliance with VKA, was established. The patient was discharged home upon achieving a persistently therapeutic INR, with instructions to discontinue contraceptive therapy. Conclusion: coronary thromboembolism is a rare complication of PHV with inadequate anticoagulation leading, in this case, to an unrecognized MI.

LMNA–RELATED DILATED CARDIOMYOPATHY PRESENTING WITH REGIONAL WALL AKINESIS AND TRANSMURAL LATE GADOLINIUM ENHANCEMENT

Abstract A 26–year–old girl was admitted at hospital in December 2022 for a syncopal episode. She referred fatigue and dyspnea in the last 2 months. EKG was markedly abnormal showing peripheral low voltages, poor R wave progression in prechordial leads, negative T waves V4–V6, DII, DIII and aVF, fragmented QRS (Fig.1). Echo showed moderately dilated left ventricle (LV) with apical akinesia and apical aneurysm (no thrombi) and hypo–akinesia and hyperechoic appearance of the middle segments of the infero–posterior and lateral wall (Fig.2a). EF was 38%. There was no family history for sudden cardiac death and cardiomyopathy. Creatine kinase and neurological examination were normal. The diagnostic work–up included: myocardial scintigraphy which showed fixed tracer uptake deficit at apical and posterolateral levels (Fig.2b); cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR): apical aneurysm with extended late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) due to fibrosis, focally transmural, on the left ventricle’s midapical and infero–lateral thinned–hypokinetic myocardial walls (Fig.3a, 3b); Coronary angiography showed no stenosis. Due to myocardial aneurysm in absence of CAD, Chagas disease was excluded. We performed LV endomyocardial biopsy which showed cardiomyopathic changes and replacement fibrosis. Due to fibrosis extension, complex ventricular extrasystoles detected on monitoring and syncope, ICD was implanted. Finally genetic testing showed c.1621C&amp;gt;Tp.Arg541Cys LMNA pathogenetic mutation leading to the diagnosis of LMNA–related LV cardiomyopathy, with extensive fibrosis in multiple areas of left ventricle including the apical segments at a very young age. Patients with LMNA mutation-related heart disease are characterized by conduction abnormalities, ventricular tachyarrhythmias (VA) and high risk of sudden cardiac death with mildly impaired systolic function, often without chamber dilation. About 88% LMNA– cardiomyopathy have typical myocardial fibrosis, predominantly in the mid-myocardium of the basal septum. However, our patient and previous reported cases with the same p.R541 LMNA mutation presents with a specific phenotype including regional LV akinesis, segmental transmural LGE, significant LV dilatation and systolic dysfunction and VA without conduction abnormality. Of note, EKG shows normal A–V conduction but low voltage and negative T waves in precordial and inferior leads. These features are not typical for LMNA–disease and underline the phenotypic variability of cardiomyopathies.

PROSTHETIC GRAFT INFECTION: WHEN ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY IS NOT ENOUGH!

Abstract A 68–year–old Caucasian male, post–Bentall procedure with a bioprosthetic valve following extensive aortic dissection involving the ascending aorta and aortic arch, presented to the Emergency Department with persistent fever for over a month. During his hospitalization, he experienced ventricular fibrillation in the setting of hypokalemia, successfully managed with Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support (ACLS) and DC shock, leading to the restoration of sinus rhythm. Subsequently, he was admitted to the Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unite. Blood tests revealed neutrophilic leukocytosis with elevated inflammatory markers, anemia, and a troponin curve consistent with myocardial injury in the context of sepsis and anemia. Echocardiography demonstrated a left ventricle of normal dimensions with globally depressed function (EF 45%), attributed to apical akinesia. The prosthetic valve was functioning normally, and there were no signs of endocarditic vegetations or pericardial involvement. A transesophageal echocardiogram confirmed the absence of vegetations. Given echocardiographic signs of myocardial ischemia, coronary angiography was performed, revealing a coronary circulation free from significant stenosis. Cultural exams showed positivity for Enterococcus faecalis. A PET–CT revealed the presence of radioisotope uptake around the vascular prosthesis situated in the aortic arch. An Infectious Disease specialist recommended antibiotic therapy with Piperacillin/Tazobactam and Teicoplanin. At the one–month follow–up, the patient remained asymptomatic, free from new febrile episodes. The follow–up echocardiogram indicated improved global systolic function, and inflammatory markers remained consistently negative. Repeat blood cultures were negative. This case illustrates a suspected endocarditis on a prosthetic valve where both transthoraci and transesophageal echocardiography yielded negative results. The use of PET–CT, on the other hand, revealed the presence of vascular graft infection, proving to be a valuable method in this clinical setting.

Broken Heart! Surprised to Know Why!

A 70-year-old female attended the emergency department with cardiac sounding chest pain, cough, new concerning ECG changes and recent history of long flight. Her cardiac enzymes were elevated raising the suspicion of Acute Coronary syndrome. She was taken for urgent percutaneous coronary intervention which did not reveal any significant obstructive coronary artery disease however, ventriculogram revealed severe left ventricular systolic dysfunction (LVSD) with typical apical akinesis resembling takatsubo. A transthoracic echocardiogram confirmed severely reduced left ventricular ejection fraction. In addition, she was also treated for pneumonia which was the possible trigger of the event.

Pattern and Prognostic Impact of Regional Wall Motion Abnormalities in 255 697 Men and 236 641 Women Investigated with Echocardiography.

Regional wall motion abnormalities (WMAs) after myocardial infarction are associated with adverse remodeling and increased mortality in the short to medium term. Their long-term prognostic impact is less well understood. Via the National Echo Database of Australia (2000-2019), we identified normal wall motion versus WMA for each left ventricular wall among 492 338 individuals aged 61.9±17.9 years. The wall motion score index was also calculated. We then examined actual 1- and 5-year mortality, plus adjusted risk of long-term mortality according to WMA status. Overall, 39 346/255 697 men (15.4%) and 17 834/236 641 women (7.5%) had aWMA. The likelihood of a WMA was associated with increasing age and greater systolic/diastolic dysfunction. A defect in the inferior versus anterior wall was the most and least common WMA in men (8.0% and 2.5%) and women (3.3% and 1.1%), respectively. Any WMA increased 5-year mortality from 17.5% to 29.7% in men and from 14.9% to 30.8% in women. Known myocardial infarction (hazard ratio [HR], 0.86 [95% CI, 0.80-0.93]) or revascularization (HR, 0.87 [95% CI, 0.82-0.92]) was independently associated with a better prognosis, whereas men (1.22-fold increase) and those with greater systolic/diastolic dysfunction had a worse prognosis. Among those with any WMA, apical (HR, 1.08 [95% CI, 1.02-1.13]) or inferior (HR, 1.09 [95% CI, 1.04-1.15]) akinesis, dyskinesis or aneurysm, or a wall motion score index >3.0 conveyed the worst prognosis. In a large real-world clinical cohort, twice as many men as women have a WMA, with inferior WMA the most common. Any WMA confers a poor prognosis, especially inferoapical akinesis/dyskinesis/aneurysm.

Abstract 18997: Management of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Mediated Myocarditis

Clinical Presentation: A 52-year-old female with metastatic Stage IVB (T4N3M1c) lung adenocarcinoma presented with worsening dyspnea. She had just completed her 3 rd round of carboplatin/pemetrexed/pembrolizumab/MK-5890 chemotherapy. Upon examination she was noted to be hypertensive and tachycardic with an elevated high-sensitivity troponin T. ECG showed sinus tachycardia, left axis deviation, and flattened T waves in lead V5 and V6. In the ED, she subsequently developed supraventricular tachycardia and was admitted to the ICU. TTE demonstrated moderately reduced EF of 30-35%. TTE also identified hypokinesis in the basal to mid anterior and lateral walls and apical akinesis. Initial CMR showed an EF of 31% with akinesis of the mid and apical anterior, septal and inferior wall. Given the clinical and imaging findings, she was diagnosed with myopericarditis secondary to pembrolizumab and started on 1 mg/kg methylprednisolone taper for 60 days. Repeat CMR after completion of steroid taper showed evidence of weighted T2 edema in myocardium and pericardium. Late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) in inferior and lateral epicardium and adjacent pericardium as well as patchy LGE throughout the myocardium with significant EF improvement (57%) (Figure 1A-B). In our patient, multi-modality imaging was used to confirm the diagnosis and monitor treatment response. Discussion: Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) are a novel class of immunotherapies used in certain malignancies. Initial treatment of myocarditis consists of cessation of further ICI and administration of corticosteroids. Additionally, symptomatic myocarditis treatment should be started. Reinitiating ICI therapy should ultimately be done with shared decision making.

Abstract 14154: Myotonic Dystrophy and Stress Induced Cardiomyopathy

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (MD1) is an autosomal dominant neuromuscular disease that can affect skeletal, smooth, and cardiac muscle. Patients often have cardiac involvement such as conduction diseases, ventricular arrhythmia, sudden cardiac death, cardiomyopathy and pulmonary hypertension. We describe a patient with MD1 who suffered recurrent takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Case: A 39-year-old female with history of myotonic dystrophy type 1, takotsubo cardiomyopathy with recovered ejection fraction (EF) 50-55%, gastroparesis and orthostatic hypotension presented with chest pain, nausea, vomiting, dyspnea, and diaphoresis. Initially she was hypotensive and tachycardic. The initial physical exam revealed intact mentation, cachexia, 4/5 muscle strength in all four extremities, lack of JVD, warm and well-perfused extremities without edema. Notable lab findings included a lactic acid of 2.3 mmol/L, high sensitivity troponin of 5000 ng/L and proBNP of 1520 pg/mL. Her initial ECG revealed first degree AV block, left anterior fascicular block, ST elevations in leads V 2 -V 3 and T wave inversions in lateral leads. She was admitted for further evaluation. A transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) showed an EF of 20-25% with apical akinesis and ballooning, with a small apical mural thrombus. She was started on a heparin drip and ischemic work up was deferred given her normal coronary arteries three years prior. Serial TTEs showed improvement of her EF to 54% within two weeks. She was managed with gentle diuresis but she was unable to tolerate guideline directed medical therapy (GDMT) due to symptomatic hypotension. Improvement in her symptoms was noted with the EF recovery. Discussion: There is currently no known association between takotsubo cardiomyopathy and myotonic dystrophy type 1. To our knowledge there is one case in the literature that reported a recurrent takotsubo cardiomyopathy in MD1 patient, and this case is the second. These two cases highlight the possibility that MD1 patients may be at risk of recurrent takotsubo cardiomyopathy. We believe that additional research is needed to investigate a possible causative relationship between the two disease entities.

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy complicating acute on chronic pancreatitis: A case report

Acute or chronic pancreatitis as a trigger of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) has been infrequently described in the literature. Misdiagnosis of this phenomenon can often occur due to overlap in symptomology, particularly in those outside of the usual. A 50-year-old man with a history of alcohol abuse presented with epigastric and chest pain. Electrocardiography showed ischemic changes, and laboratory workup revealed elevated lipase, amylase, and troponin. He was diagnosed with acute pancreatitis and managed presumptively as acute coronary syndrome, class 4 angina. Patient had no signs of chronic liver disease, his pulmomary system was stable. He was a known case of left upper limb thrombosis and had portal venous thrombosis and was on tablet Rivaraxoban 10 mg. Subsequent coronary angiography was negative for obstructive coronary artery disease, and left ventriculography demonstrated basal hyperkinesis and apical akinesis, characteristic of TCM. TCM is a rare complication of acute pancreatitis. Increased awareness of this phenomenon is required to prevent delays in diagnosis and avoid unnecessary interventions and complications.

Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy Due to Electric Shock by Home Appliance; An Unusual Finding in Day-to-day Life

Abstract Takotsubo cardiomyopathy or stress cardiomyopathy is a sudden transient cardiac syndrome that shows left ventricular apical akinesis and mimics acute coronary syndrome. Coronary flow is normal. We describe the case of a 28-year-old male who encountered an electric shock at home, and after that, developed acute chest pain and palpitations. His cardiac markers were raised, and his electrocardiogram revealed myocardial ischemia. The epicardial flow was found to be normal after coronary angiography. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy was identified as the cause.

Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy: Broken Heart Syndrome in A Tertiary Teaching &amp; Referral Hospital in East Africa: Case Report &amp; Literature Review

Purpose: Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TC), also known as broken heart syndrome, refers to an abrupt and short-lived cardiac syndrome that encompasses dramatic left ventricular apical akinesia. besides mirroring acute coronary syndrome. Patients with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (broken heart syndrome) usually present with symptoms that are similar to acute coronary syndrome. The patient commonly presents with chest pain, dyspnea, palpitation, nausea and vomiting, syncope as well as cardiogenic shock. However, Takotsubo cardiomyopathy usually occurs in association with a preceding physical or emotional stressful event.&#x0D; Methodology: A 25-year-old black female presented to the largest teaching &amp; referral hospital in Kenya with chest pain, dyspnea, palpitations, nausea and vomiting. The patient was received in the emergency room where she was stabilized, a battery of investigations ordered and a diagnosis of TC was made after reviewing the results. She was managed as an inpatient on appropriate medication&#x0D; Findings: Patient generally responded positively to the treatment and tolerated well the surgical procedures. Follow up echocardiograms performed weekly revealed progressive reduction in size of the thrombus, which had completely resolved at 4 weeks. There was no more thrombi formation after thromboembolectomy of the left femoral artery.&#x0D; Recommendations: TC is a rescindable type of cardiomyopathy that is associated with good prognosis and an exceptional morphological characteristic of the left ventricle, that is defined by apical inflating appearance that has been recognized for nearly a quarter a century. We also recommend that patients with identified LV thrombus ought to be anticoagulated till LV function normalizes in addition to the thrombus no longer being present on echocardiogram.

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection-associated takotsubo syndrome: A systematic review of case reports.

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is underdiagnosed and requires comprehensive angiographic findings. Few SCAD occurrences have a comparable clinical appearance as takotsubo syndrome (TTS) or exist simultaneously, making it challenging for clinicians to treat and manage. Case reports lack consolidated data. We examined SCAD-TTS case reports. To conduct a systematic review of available case reports on SCAD in order to investigate its potential association with TTS. SCAD-associated TTS case reports were reviewed after thoroughly screening PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases till January 2023. Case reports described demographics, comorbidities, imaging, management, and results. Twelve articles about 20 female patients were analyzed. 30% of patients (n = 6, > 60 years) were elderly (mean age 56.2 ± 9.07 years, range 36-70 years). Canada has 9 cases, United States 3, Australia 3, Sweden 2, Japan, Denmark, and France 1. Only 5 reports identified emotional stressors in these cases while 4 reports showed physical triggers for TTS. Nine had hypertension, 2 had hyperlipidemia, and 1 had prediabetes. 5 patients (25%) smoked. 10 (50%) troponin-positive myocardial infarction patients reported chest discomfort. 11 (55%) of 20 instances had TTS/SCAD. 12 (60%) of 20 patients exhibited ST elevation and 3 (15%) had T wave inversion on electrocardiogram. 19/20 patients had elevated troponin. 9 (45%) of 20 people had apical akinesis with TTS ballooning on cardiac imaging. All 20 exhibited echocardiographic wall motion abnormalities. 19 (95%) of 20 coronary angiography cases had SCAD. 10 of 19 SCAD patients had left anterior descending, 2 diagonal, and 2 left circumflex coronary artery involvement. 7 of 20 patients had left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) data. LVEF averaged 38.78 ± 7.35%. 5 (25%) of the 20 cases underwent dual antiplatelet therapy. Three (15%) of 20 cases experienced occasional ectopic ventricular complexes, Mobitz ll AV block, and paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. All 20 cases recovered and survived. Given the clinical similarities and challenges in detecting TTS and SCAD, this subset needs more research to raise awareness and reduce morbidity.

Abstract P1055: Takotsubo Syndrome Model In Rats

Background: Takotsubo syndrome (TS) is an acute form of heart failure. The pathophysiology of the life-threatening syndrome is partially understood. A relevant animal model can aid in elucidating mechanisms behind TS. Current models of TS lack proper reproducibility, have high mortality, and fail to reflect the human condition adequately. This experimental study aimed to produce a human-like TS model. Methods: Rats were infused i.v. with a single dose of isoprenaline in varying doses (0.1-50 mg/kg) and infusion times (1-60 min). High-resolution speckle-tracking echo and 3D imaging was used to study heart function for up to 30 days. Results: Mechanical dyssynchrony preceded global contractile dysfunction and development of transient apical akinesia. Surviving rats showed normal behaviour, ECG and imaging at day 30. TS-like phenotype was achieved in 92.9% of survivors. Mortality at 30-day was 6.7%. The deceased animals developed complications like TS patients including heart failure, malignant arrhythmias, mural thrombus formation, cardiogenic shock. A dose-dependent relationship in incidence (p&lt;0.0001), extent of akinesia (p&lt;0.01), mortality (p&lt;0.01), and cardiac function was seen with stress hormone. Systolic cardiac function at first echo was a good predictor for mortality (Odds Ratio 0.73; 95% CI 0.57-0.85), while the extent of akinesia strongly correlated with time until recovery (Rho = 0.86). Conclusions: This study provides a highly reproducible TS model with low mortality and excellent translational potential. High-resolution imaging and the natural course demonstrate the presence of the most critical characteristics of TS-like phenotype as in humans.

Diagnosis and Clinical Implication of Left Ventricular Aneurysm in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a genetic disease with heterogeneous clinical presentation and prognosis. Within the broad phenotypic expression of HCM, there is a subgroup of patients with a left ventricular (LV) apical aneurysm, which has an estimated prevalence between 2% and 5%. LV apical aneurysm is characterized by an area of apical dyskinesis or akinesis, often associated with regional scarring. To date, the most accepted pathomechanism of this complication is, in absence of coronary artery disease, the high systolic intra-aneurysmal pressure, which, combined with impaired diastolic perfusion from lower stroke volume, results in supply-demand ischemia and myocardial injury. Apical aneurysm is increasingly recognized as a poor prognostic marker; however, the efficacy of prophylactic anticoagulation and/or intracardiac cardioverted defibrillator (ICD) in improving morbidity and mortality is not yet clearly demonstrated. This review aims to elucidate the mechanism, diagnosis and clinical implication of LV aneurysm in patients with HCM.

P228 MINOCA/TYPE 2 IMA: WHEN WE HAVE TO EXIT FROM STANDARD DIAGNOSTIC FLOW–CHART

Abstract MINOCA is an Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI), defined on the basis of Fouth Universal Definition, in absence of epicardial coronaries stenosis &amp;gt;50%. This definition is very broad, including typical mechanisms of type 1 and type 2 AMI. Diagnostic flow–chart recommended by ESC and AHA includes imaging tests, coronary physiology and cardiac MRI. Here we present the case of 71–year–old man who underwent aortic bioprosthesis implantation (Trifecta n.25) and atrial septal defect (ASD) closure in 2019. In December 2022, the patient arrived in the Emergency Department (ED) with anterior STEMI, apical akinesia and angiographic evidence of distal left anterior descending (LAD) artery occlusion. Whereas angiographic feature was compatible with an embolic phenomenon, we performed in the 1st day transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) that showed a voluminous, rounded mass (maximum diameter 1.2 cm) isoechoic, mobile, adherent to the aortic side of left coronary cusp. Despite the absence of clinical features of an acute infection (apyrexia and negative CRP/PCT) and the atypical mass localization for endocarditis, we took 3 sets of blood cultures and we required an immediate cardiac surgical consultation. In consideration of high estimated embolic risk, patient underwent urgent cardiac surgery with aortic bioprosthesis explantation, annular malacia (probable abscess) explantation and Carpentier n.23 biological prosthesis implant. Histological examination of the removed mass showed exudative material with intense acute inflammation. According to counseling of infectious disease specialist, we started an empiric antibiotic therapy with intravenous vancomycin and gentamicin. Given persistence of 3rd degree atrioventrocular block, patient underwent definitive pacemaker implantation. Cultures on blood and on explanted valve were negative and patient was discharged without further complications after 4 weeks of antibiotic therapy. In our opinion, this clinical case underlines the importance of an individualized diagnostic–therapeutic approach in patients with MINOCA, also considering rare etiologies and involving various medical specialist (clinical cardiologist, echocardiographer, surgeon).

P137 STEMI IN YOUNG MAN: A "CHALLENGE" CASE OF SPONTANEOUS CORONARY DISSECTION

Abstract A 21–years old male patient presented to the emergency department complaining chest pain in the night. There was no family history of cardiovascular events; he did not have any known risk factors and denied drug abuse. Pathological history was positive for allergic asthma. On admission, he was paucisyntomatic. The physical examination was normal. Blood pressure was slightly elevated. The EKG showed sinus rhythm, ST segment elevation in high lateral leads and reciprocal ST depression in inferior leads. The echocardiogram showed anterolateral and mid–apical septal akinesia of the left ventricle with ejection fraction of 45%. The urgent coronary angiography showed suspected coronary artery dissection of the first diagonal branch with TIMI flow grade 2 and myocardial brigde of the middle segment of the left anterior descending artery (fig.1). An initial conservative management with beta–blockers, dual antiplatelet therapy, statin and ACE–inhibitors was adopted: the patient was asymptomatic and the EKG became normal during the coronary angiography. In addition the young age, the suspicion of Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection (SCAD) and TIMI flow grade 2 in the culpit vessel provided support of conservative treatment. The hospital stay was unremarkable. Troponin T peak value was 1542 pg/ml (n.v. &amp;lt; 13 pg/ml). Thrombophilia screening showed mild hyperhomocysteinemia and homozygous MTHFR mutation. Autoimmunity screening was negative. The subsequent echocardiogram showed mid–distal hypokinesia of the anterolateral, inferolateral and anterior wall of the left ventricle with normal ejection fraction. The CT angiography of the cerebral and abdominal vessels was normal. The cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed a recent acute myocardial infarction of the mid–apical portions of the anterior and anterolateral wall and normal global contractile function of the left ventricle (fig. 2, 3). At 30 days follow up, the echocardiogram remained unchanged; the coronary AngioCT scan confirmed the dissection of the ostium and proximal section of the first diagonal branch; the cardiac MRI showed transmural fibrosis of the anterolateral wall with normal left ventricular ejection fraction. SCAD is an under–reported pathology. It can lead to acute coronary syndromes and life–threatening consequences. Diagnosis and treatment are still under debate. The presented clinical case, effectively treated with conservative therapy, represented a "challenge" in the acute phase.