Takotsubo cardiomyopathy after electroconvulsive therapy.
BACKGROUND
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is a novel acute cardiac syndrome characterized by transient regional systolic dysfunction of the left-ventricular apex and mid-ventricle, with hyperkinesis of the basal left ventricular segments, which has been associated with severe emotional or physical stress.


METHODS
This is the second published case report of takotsubo cardiomyopathy occurring in the setting of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).


RESULTS
The patient, a 52-year-old woman, experienced chest pain and discomfort shortly after ECT treatment. She was shown to have moderate left-ventricular dysfunction, with mid-cavity left-ventricular hypo- to akinesis, and hyperkinesis in the basilar region, consistent with a diagnosis of takotsubo cardiomyopathy. There was full resolution of her symptoms within 48 hours of the initial event.


CONCLUSIONS
This report highlights a previously undocumented complication of ECT and adds to the growing list of stressors responsible for cases of takotsubo cardiomyopathy. The prognosis is favorable, and recovery is generally complete, especially with early recognition of the syndrome and proper supportive treatment.
Beach
Scott R
SR
Department of Psychiatry and Neurobehavioral Sciences, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA, USA. sbeach1@partners.org
Wichman
Christina L
CL
Canterbury
R J
RJ
D004562:Electrocardiography; D004565:Electroconvulsive Therapy / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D054549:Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy