Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, or stress-induced cardiomyopathy, classically presents with transient apical ballooning, primarily in postmenopausal women under intense emotional stress. This case reviews an atypical mid-ventricular variant in a male patient.

Patient Presentation

A 52-year-old male with no significant cardiac history presented with acute-onset substernal chest pain and mild dyspnea, which began 30 minutes after completing a light jog.

Diagnostic Findings

  • Electrocardiogram (ECG): Revealed ST-segment elevations in the precordial leads V3-V6.
  • Echocardiography: Demonstrated mid-ventricular hypokinesia with apical sparing (atypical variant).
  • Coronary Angiography: Showed clean coronary arteries with no obstructive disease.

Discussion and Management

The patient was treated with beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors. A follow-up echocardiogram at 6 weeks demonstrated complete recovery of left ventricular systolic function.