tako-tsubo cardiomyopathy
Pronunciation: TAH-ko-TSU-bo
Temporary heart condition mimicking myocardial infarction, often triggered by emotional or physical stress.
Full Definition
Tako-tsubo cardiomyopathy, also known as stress cardiomyopathy or broken heart syndrome, is a temporary condition characterized by sudden weakening of the left ventricular myocardium that typically follows severe emotional or physical stress. The condition gets its name from the distinctive apical ballooning appearance of the left ventricle on imaging, which resembles a Japanese fishing pot (tako-tsubo). Unlike myocardial infarction, coronary arteries are typically normal or have non-obstructive disease. The exact mechanism involves catecholamine-mediated myocardial stunning. Most patients recover completely within weeks to months, though acute complications can include heart failure, arrhythmias, and rarely, ventricular rupture.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate when used as an adjective; alternative terms include stress cardiomyopathy and broken heart syndrome.
In Context
- "The patient developed tako-tsubo cardiomyopathy following the sudden death of her spouse." — hospital admission note
- "Echocardiography showed the characteristic apical ballooning pattern of tako-tsubo cardiomyopathy." — diagnostic imaging report