A Case Report on Opioid Withdrawal‐Induced Stress Cardiomyopathy and a Review of the Current Literature
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC), also known as stress-induced cardiomyopathy or apical ballooning syndrome, is a temporary heart condition characterized by a sudden and reversible weakening of the heart muscle, often triggered by significant emotional or physical stress. First identified in Japan in 1990, the term "Takotsubo" describes the heart's distinctive shape during this condition, resembling an octopus trap as seen in imaging studies. Opioid withdrawal-induced stress cardiomyopathy is likely mediated by increased sympathetic activity and catecholamine surge. It may present with acute chest pain, electrocardiographic changes mimicking acute coronary syndrome, modest troponin elevation, and characteristic left ventricular systolic dysfunction with apical or mid-ventricular ballooning on echocardiography in the absence of obstructive coronary artery disease. Early detection and management with methadone or buprenorphine (an opioid agonist therapy) is important to improve the clinical outcome of the patient. In the context of rising opioid-related complications, physicians particularly in emergency settings should maintain a high index of suspicion for life threatening conditions. This case report presents an atypical manifestation of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy in the opioid withdrawal population, detailing the patient's clinical progression, diagnostic evaluation, management, and outcome. Such cases provide valuable insights for clinicians to improve early detection and optimize treatment strategies, ultimately ensuring better patient outcomes.
Source: Case Reports in Cardiology
DOI: 10.1155/cric/9735423
Institution: Jamaica Hospital
Language: English
Subfield: Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $790
OpenAlex ID: W7162934295