Fragile Imperfections of the Broken Heart: A Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy Review

Abstract

Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy is the only known form of stress-related reversible heart failure hallmarked by left ventricular apical ballooning into the shape of a "takotsubo" Japanese fishing trap. It is often mistaken for various other cardiac ailments like myocardial infarction or acute coronary syndrome, which is why this disease requires careful examination and treatment. The prognosis is generally favorable in that symptoms often reverse and cease 3-4 weeks after initial analysis and only carry a 0-20% of relapse. Incidence rates have gradually increased since Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy's discovery in 1991 as patient screening and medical knowledge of the affliction increases. Case study incidences have also been on the rise, leading to various disease derivatives like "happy heart" syndrome, natural disaster triggers, and physiological mechanism differences from the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic