Not Just Another Broken Heart: A Case Report of Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy Causing Syncope
Published Web Location
https://doi.org/10.5811/cpcem.47179
Abstract
Introduction: Patients with symptoms suggestive of acute coronary syndromes account for up to 10% of emergency department (ED) visits, and of those visits 2% are diagnosed with takotsubo syndrome. Takotsubo syndrome associated with left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction is an important but uncommon cause of chest pain and syncope in patients presenting with ST- segment elevations. Although rare, this variant is associated with worse clinical outcomes. Early recognition of LVOT obstruction in these patients is important to help guide proper management.
Case Report: We report a case of a 66-year-old female presenting to the ED after a syncopal episode with ST-segment elevations on the electrocardiogram. Point-of-care ultrasound revealed apical hypokinesis, thickened basal septum with LVOT obstruction and systolic anterior motion.
Conclusion: Point-of-care ultrasound can help quickly diagnose takotsubo cardiomyopathy and its complications, providing guidance to accurate management.