An unusual case of complete atrioventricular block causing Takotsubo syndrome

Takotsubo Syndrome and Complete Heart Block: A Diagnostic and Management Conundrum

There is increasing evidence that Takotsubo cardiomyopathy behaves more like a highly variable and dangerous syndrome than an isolated cardiomyopathy. In this case report, we describe a case of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy complicated by complete heart block. We discuss the potential mechanisms for its etiology and examine the need for pacemaker placement.

Complete Heart Block Causing Takotsubo Syndrome: A Case Report

The association of complete atrioventricular (AV) block with Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is well known, but the cause-and-effect relationship has not been determined. We present the case of a 91-year-old female with complete AV block who went untreated for over a year and later developed Takotsubo syndrome. Reversal of wall movement defects was seen after a permanent pacemaker was implanted, and routine follow-up showed that the implanted pacemaker worked normally.

Takotsubo syndrome and complete heart block, which came first? A case report

BACKGROUND

In 2018, the European Society of Cardiology published two consensus documents on takotsubo syndrome (TTS), which include the current consensus on nomenclature, diagnosis, management, and complications. However, little is mentioned on the association with complete heart block (CHB), except that 'AV block [occurs in] 2.9% of cases'. Complete heart block is a recognized rare association of TTS, but causation is often unclear. Does CHB trigger TTS or vice-versa? Here, we present a case of TTS associated with CHB.

CASE SUMMARY

An 89-year-old woman presented with a transient loss of consciousness, acute chest pain, and dyspnoea. A few days prior to this her daughter died suddenly of a myocardial infarction. On presentation, troponin levels were elevated, the electrocardiogram showed CHB with a broad QRS and an echo showed apical akinesis and ballooning. Angiographic investigation excluded significant coronary artery disease. A dual-chamber pacemaker was implanted after a brief period of temporary pacing. Ventricular function normalized during follow-up and her underlying rhythm remained CHB.

DISCUSSION

Takotsubo syndrome may be triggered by both emotional and physical stressors. Complete heart block is recognized association, but causation is often unclear. In our case, a clear emotional trigger was identified suggesting the TTS may have precipitated CHB not vice versa.