Work-related stress induced Takotsubo cardiomyopathy

Abstract

Aim: To report a case of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy secondary to a verbal altercation in an employee who presented with chest pain. Methods: The clinical history was obtained from the patient’s occupational health record and correspondence from her treating cardiologist. Results: The patient was diagnosed with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy following investigations for chest pain. Her echocardiogram was diagnostic. She was treated with beta blockers and advised to have complete rest; she remained out of work for six months. Conclusion: There are few published cases of work related Takotsubo cardiomyopathy; it poses a challenge to physicians to be cognisant of this condition in a case of chest pain following emotional turmoil.