Successful rescue of one patient with acute myocardial infarction-like takotsubo cardiomyopathy accompanied by cardiogenic shock

In this study, we report on one 55-year-old male patient that was initially diagnosed with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) was performed but coronary angiography revealed a normal coronary artery. Thus, we were alerted that this patient might suffer from takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Further disease history questioning revealed that this patient had obvious psychological and physical stress attached before onset, therefore, we immediately performed left ventricular imaging and echocardiography (ECG), confirming takotsubo cardiomyopathy. After giving beta-blockers, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI), diuretics, and anticoagulant drugs, the patient's disease condition worsened and progressed to cardiogenic shock. The on-duty doctor wrongly applied dopamine, progressively aggravating cardiogenic shock. After withdrawing from dopamine, an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) was applied and the amount of beta-blockers was increased, gradually correcting cardiogenic shock. The patient improved and was discharged after a 21-day hospitalization. Our 10-month follow up showed that the patient had completely returned to normal.