Relatively High Prevalence of Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy (Stress-Induced Cardiomyopathy) in the Japanese Population—Contribution of Cardiac Imaging in the Identification of Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy and its Differentiation from Acute Coronary Syndrome

Abstract Apical ballooning syndrome, the so-called takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC), is characterized by wall-motion abnormality. The wall-motion abnormality includes hypokinesis in the mid and apical segments of the left ventricle (LV) with hyperkinesis in the mid LV segment. The LV dysfunction is reversible. TTC has been reportedly been found in 1 to 2 % of patients suspected of having acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Although the wall-motion abnormality of TTC is a significant feature, clinical presentation involving chest pain or ECG abnormalities is similar to that for ACS. Therefore, the diagnosis of TTC is still a challenge in emergency settings. Cardiovascular imaging may assist in the diagnosis and understanding of the pathophysiology of TTC.
Source: Current Cardiovascular Imaging Reports - Category: Radiology Source Type: research