[Takotsubo cardiomyopathy: current evidence from observational studies and pathophysiological background].

Abstract

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is an acute reversible form of cardiac failure, firstly described in 1991, with a prognosis not favorable as previously thought. Although high levels of catecholamines have been suggested as the leading mechanism for the onset, the pathophysiology remains unclear. However, several pathophysiological explanations have been proposed, all not mutually exclusive. A complex chain of events is present, including the activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, the surge in circulating catecholamines and subsequent cardiovascular responses. This review addresses the diagnostic classification, short and mid-term prognosis, precipitating factors, classification into primary and secondary forms, and possible drug therapies for stress cardiomyopathy. Clinical and experimental studies are needed to further improve diagnosis and targeted therapies.

• Authors: Francesco Santoro, Natale Daniele Brunetti, Nicola Tarantino, Riccardo Ieva, Matteo Di Biase, Luigi Di Biase
• Journal: Giornale italiano di cardiologia (2006) (G Ital Cardiol (Rome)) Vol. 17 Issue 10 Pg. 806-815 (Oct 2016) ISSN: 1827-6806 [Print] Italy
• Vernacular Title: Cardiomiopatia Takotsubo: evidenze dagli studi osservazionali e basi fisiopatologiche.
• PMID: 27869898 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)

Chemical References

• Catecholamines

Topics

• Catecholamines (metabolism)
• Humans
• Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System (metabolism)
• Molecular Targeted Therapy
• Pituitary-Adrenal System (metabolism)
• Prognosis
• Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy (diagnosis, drug therapy, physiopathology)