Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy: An Unusual Presentation Mimicking STEMI

Abstract

Takotsubo syndrome, also known as stress cardiomyopathy, is a rare and often underdiagnosed condition that presents with symptoms similar to acute coronary syndrome. We present the case of a 58-year-old female with no significant past medical history who presented to the emergency department with chest pain, shortness of breath, and electrocardiographic changes suggestive of acute myocardial infarction. Coronary angiography was negative for obstructive coronary artery disease, and transthoracic echocardiography showed characteristic apical ballooning of the left ventricle consistent with Takotsubo syndrome. The patient was managed with supportive care and beta-blocker therapy, and follow-up imaging demonstrated complete resolution of her ventricular dysfunction. This case highlights the importance of considering Takotsubo syndrome in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with symptoms of acute coronary syndrome and underscores the need for prompt diagnosis and management of this potentially life-threatening condition.