Takotsubo syndrome in a cruise ship port, a single center experience
Moguel Ancheita, Rafael; Ponte González , Giovanny; Berrones Homa, Samady; Reddy, Krupal; Samaniego Méndez, Virginia
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Takotsubo syndrome is an infrequent problem characterized by transitory apical dilatation and ballooning of the left ventricle, frequently resulting from mental or physical stress; it mimics other acute cardiac problems. There are few publications about these conditions in vacation centers, especially on cruise ships.
Results: the paper describes 15 patients from a vacation center with high cruise ship volume, from 2014 through 2023, nine of them on Killip-Kimbal class 3-4; the average ejection fraction of all patients was 36%. All the patients had negative coronary angiography or non-significant stenosis, and all of them had complete recovery before leaving the hospital, on Killip-Kimball class 1 and 58% average left ventricle ejection fraction.
Discussion and conclusion: the present TS single-center experience at a top vacation cruise line center offers significant insight into travelers' triggers, demographic characteristics, and illness management. Post-menopause, women are especially vulnerable to the syndrome. TS usually shows ST-segment but is distinguished from acute coronary syndromes by the early return of ventricular function, conditions observed in our patients. Echocardiography, coronary angiography, and electrocardiography are vital for distinguishing myocardial infarction from TS. Supportive therapy and identifying and correcting triggering variables are part of the management; this care may include intravenous and device-based ventricular support.
