Takotsubo Syndrome

The Takotsubo Syndrome is also called Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. It is also known by stress cardiomyopathy. It is a non-ischemic cardiomyopathy. In Takotsubo syndrome, there is a sudden temporary weakening of the muscular portion of the heart. It is also referred to as the broken heart syndrome.

About Takotsubo Syndrome

The disease is mainly caused due to emotional stresses that includes loss of job or divorce, sepsis or shock. Sepsis is a condition that occurs due to the presence of harmful microorganisms in the blood.

Occurrence

It occurs worldwide. It is responsible for 2% of the acute coronary syndrome. It commonly occurs in postmenopausal women. The occurrence of the disease in middle-aged and older women is ten times more than younger women or men belonging to the same age.

Name reason

The name “Takotsubo” is a Japanese word. It means “Octopus trap”. This is because, when the heart is affected by this condition, the left ventricle of the heart takes up the shape of the Octopus trap.

Causes

Stress: The most of the Takotsubo cases are preceded by a stressful event.

Pathophysiological causes: Viral infections such as Parvovirus B19 and coronary spasms of micro vessels

Genetic factors: There is limited evidence that the Takotsubo syndrome is genetically transferable. However, widely held hypothesis support the idea.

Hormonal dysregulation: Certain endocrine diseases such as thyrotoxicosis are also one of the causes of the disease. There is strong connection between stress and thyroid functioning.