Tako-Tsubo Cardiomyopathy syndrome mimicking an acute myocardial infarction, in patients without coronary occlusive disease. Originally described in Japan, Tako-Tsubo Cardiomyopathy is also known as, "broken heart syndrome", as it is typically precipitated by acute stress, either physical or emotional.
For years, several studies have supported the notion that persons with cognitive impairment demonstrate less emotional responsiveness. Recent works suggest that responsiveness is not as affected by dementing diseases, and may be preserved during the course of dementia. Individual differences are also suggested. Recognition of these new concepts may contribute to a better approach to individuals with dementia.
Purpose: To raise healthcare providers' awareness of the possible co-existence of Tako-Tsubo cardiomyopathy in patients with dementia.
Methods and Materials: We present an 88-year-old woman with hypertension and dementia, who was admitted to our ward after a fall associated with hip fracture, that needed surgical repair. The night after the operation she complained of chest pain and dyspnea. An ECG showed a QS pattern in precordial leads. An echocardiogram revealed decreased LV function and antero-septal hypokinesis; she was brought to the catheterization laboratory with suspected AMI. A left ventricular angiogram showed a typical picture of Tako-subocardiomyopathy, in the presence of mild coronary atherosclerosis. Based on this data, beta-blockers were initiated. The remaining course was uneventful.
Conclusion: Tako-Tsubo cardiomyopathy can develop in patients with dementia following a stressful event or procedure.
