Stress-induced (takotsubo) cardiomyopathy

Risk factors

• Postmenopausal woman
• Recent physical or emotional stressor

Clinical features

• Chest pain mimicking myocardial infarction
• Decompensated heart failure
• Moderate troponin elevation
• ECG: ischemic changes in precordial leads

Diagnosis

• Catheterization: no obstructive CAD
• Echo: LV apical hypokinesis, basilar hyperkinesis

Treatment

• Resolves in several weeks with supportive care

CAD = coronary artery disease; LV = left ventricular.