Takotsubo cardiomyopathy caused by pulmonary tuberculosis: a case report

Infections precipitating Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, an uncommon complication of a common infection

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC) is a non-ischemic cardiomyopathy precipitated by stress. Various infections are reported to precipitate this form of cardiomyopathy. We report a patient presenting with TTC secondary to influenza.  In this article, we also discuss the various infections reported to precipitate this form of reversible cardiomyopathy in literature. We have also included the recent reports of TTC among patients with COVID-19.

A rare manifestation of Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy associated with non-tuberculous mycobacterium

Background

Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy or broken heart syndrome is a rare cause of non-ischemic cardiomyopathy that produce left ventricular dysfunction with characteristic left ventricular apical ballooning. It rarely caused by infection. We present an atypical manifestation of non-tuberculous mycobacterial (NTM) infection with myocardial involvement and its diagnostic challenge.

Case illustration

A 57-year-old female presented with prolonged fever, fatigue and weight loss for one and half months. General examination was unremarkable with elevated C-Reactive Protein and normal troponin. Electrocardiogram (ECG) showed diffuse T wave inversion with prolonged QTc. Echocardiography showed hypokinetic apical with normal ejection fraction. Angiography showed patent coronary arteries. Ventriculography showed apical ballooning. Workup with ethambutol scan revealed active mycobacterial infection in both lung and mesentery. Sputum polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was positive for non-tuberculous mycobacterium. Follow up ECG and echocardiography showed improvement in QTc interval and left ventricular wall motion abnormalities.

Results

Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy may manifest as asymptomatic ventricular dysfunction following non-tuberculous mycobacterial infection. A thorough investigation will help identify the systemic disease with cardiac involvement which potentially could be fatal.

Conclusion

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy may be triggered by infection. Identification of causal is crucial as a management strategy to restore cardiac function.

Can a pneumothorax break your heart?

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy or apical ballooning is a condition characterized by transitory left ventricular dysfunction, affecting commonly postmenopausal females after foregoing acute emotional or physical stress. We report a case of a 63 year old female presenting with severe dyspnea and right-sided secondary spontaneous pneumothorax, initially treated with tube thoracostomy. Despite the fact that pneumothorax resolved, shortness of breath persisted and due to ST-segment elevation and increased Troponin I levels, she was admitted to cardiac catheterization. A significant coronary stenosis was ruled out and the diagnosis of a Takotsubo cardiomyopathy was established. Electrocardiographic findings were normalized within three days and attributable to prolonged air leakage. A thoracoscopic apex resection followed by a partial parietal pleurectomy was performed. Although Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is a rare syndrome, it should always be considered as a potential cardiac complication of a pneumothorax.