Takotsubo cardiomyopathy-related complete heart block and torsades de pointes

BMJ Case Rep. 2017 Jul 14:2017:bcr2016218017. doi: 10.1136/bcr-2016-218017.

Abstract

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) is a relatively recently recognised clinical entity. It frequently mimics acute coronary syndrome and is accompanied by reversible left ventricular apical ballooning in the absence of angiographically significant coronary artery stenosis. TCM is a reversible condition, and the prognosis is usually well. However, in rare instances, it can be associated with life-threatening arrhythmic complications. Herein, we report the case of a patient with TCM who developed complete atrioventricular block followed by QT prolongation and torsades de pointes. Furthermore, we undertook a literature review of this rare complication of TCM and discussed the formidable therapeutic challenge encountered in such patients.

Keywords: arrhythmias; pacing and electrophysiology.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Atrioventricular Block / diagnosis
  • Atrioventricular Block / etiology*
  • Atrioventricular Block / physiopathology
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Dizziness / etiology
  • Electrocardiography
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy / complications
  • Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy / diagnosis*
  • Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy / physiopathology
  • Torsades de Pointes / complications
  • Torsades de Pointes / diagnosis*
  • Torsades de Pointes / physiopathology