Cardiac arrest and successful resuscitation in a patient with Tako-Tsubo Cardiomyopathy

Tako-Tsubo Cardiomyopathy (TTC) is described as transient left ventricular (LV) dysfunction without coronary artery stenoses. Typically the onset of TTC-syndrome is following emotional or physical stress. As an acute cardiac syndrome it is mimicking ST-elevation myocardial infarction. In this case we report from a 73-year old woman presenting with cardiac arrest after a long-distance bus-tour, and ongoing resuscitation to our ICU. Advanced life support with temporary ventricular pacing was continued until onset of stable spontaneous circulation. Left ventricular angiography revealed normal coronary arteries and the typical apical ballooning phenomenon. Echocardiographic findings resolved completely within 10 days. The patient survived, achieved good cerebral recovery (CPC 1) and was alert and fully oriented on discharge after 18 days. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.