Two unusual cases of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy presenting with sudden cardiac death

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy also known as transient ballooning syndrome is characterized by reversible left ventricular dysfunction with presentation mimicking myocardial infarction. Even though this syndrome has been recognized for nearly 2 decades, cases with atypical features are still being reported. We describe 2 patients who presented to the hospital after cardiac arrest, which is very rare according to previous reports. Although still considered a benign condition, transient ballooning syndrome could be responsible for some of the undiagnosed sudden cardiac deaths in the community, and it may have a worse prognosis than currently recognized. In addition, 1 of our patients also had a previously unreported triggering factor, namely sexual intercourse.