WCD LifeVest Risk stratification in a case of tako-tsubo cardiomyopathy with QT interval prolongation

• Published in: Herz Vol. 37; no. 2; pp. 219 - 221
• Main Authors: Peters, S., Klein, H.U.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Munchen Urban and Vogel 01.03.2012
• Subjects: Cardiology; Case Study; Defibrillators; Female; Humans; Internal Medicine; Long QT Syndrome - complications; Long QT Syndrome - diagnosis; Long QT Syndrome - prevention & control; Medicine; Medicine & Public Health; Middle Aged; Risk Factors; Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy - complications; Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy - diagnosis; Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy - prevention & control; Treatment Outcome; Torsades de pointes tachycardia; QT-Verlängerung; Tako-Tsubo-Kardiomyopathie; QT prolongation; Torsades des pointes; Tako-tsubo cardiomyopathy
• ISSN: 0340-9937; 1615-6692
• DOI: 10.1007/s00059-011-3440-9

A 50-year-old woman with arterial hypertension suffered from recurrent syncope. On admission, recurrent torsades de pointes tachycardia, ventricular flutter, and ventricular fibrillation with the necessity of cardiopulmonary resuscitation were documented. After administration of β-blocking agents, amiodarone, and magnesium, heart rhythm was stabilized. Coronary angiography excluded coronary artery disease. Echocardiography revealed apical ballooning with reduced ventricular function. The ECG showed left bundle-branch block and profound QT prolongation. A WCD (wearable cardioverter–defibrillator) LifeVest was prescribed for the patient, and, thereafter, no arrhythmias were experienced. The ECG gradually normalized; echocardiography revealed slight anteroapical hypokinesia with overall normal left ventricular function. After a period of 3 months, the patient was no longer asked to wear the LifeVest; 6 months later the patient is without any complaints.