Stress Induced Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy Following Blunt Trauma: A Diagnostic Challenge in a Young Female

Case Report

Abstract

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TC), also known as stress-induced cardiomyopathy or “broken heart syndrome,” is a transient cardiac condition characterised by left ventricular apical ballooning1–3. It clinically mimics acute coronary syndrome (ACS), presenting with similar symptoms and electrocardiographic changes, yet without significant obstructive coronary artery disease on angiography4. While emotional stress is the predominant trigger, physical stressors, including trauma, can also precipitate TC, albeit in a minuscule proportion of cases - approximately 0.001%5. The condition is most frequently observed in elderly females, particularly in the context of emotional or physical stress, though trauma-induced TC in males often presents with more severe manifestations requiring intensive care, including mechanical ventilation5.