Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy and Myocardial Perfusion Image: Unusual Binomial in the Investigation of Acute Coronary Syndrome without Obstructive Lesions

Introduction

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TC), also known as broken heart syndrome or stress-induced cardiomyopathy, was primarily described in Japan in 1990, is named after its morphological similarity to the vase used by Asian people to catch octopuses, which has a rounded bottom and a narrow bottleneck. This condition is characterized by transient left ventricular (LV) systolic dysfunction, commonly preceded by physical or emotional stress, mimicking the presentation of acute myocardial infarction. In the present article, we describe a case of TC focusing on its updated approach, highlighting the applicability of myocardial perfusion scintigraphy (MPS) in the acute phase of chest pain and presenting images rarely described in this scenario.

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