Tako-tsubo cardiomyopathy
Pronunciation: TAH-ko-TSOO-bo
Acute, reversible cardiomyopathy with characteristic apical ballooning triggered by severe emotional or physical stress.
Full Definition
Tako-tsubo cardiomyopathy, also known as stress cardiomyopathy or broken heart syndrome, is an acute, typically reversible condition characterized by transient left ventricular dysfunction with a distinctive apical ballooning pattern. The name derives from the Japanese word for an octopus trap, which resembles the shape of the affected ventricle. The condition is most commonly triggered by severe emotional stress, physical illness, or surgery, particularly in postmenopausal women. Pathologically, there is evidence of catecholamine toxicity with contraction band necrosis and myocyte stunning rather than true infarction.
Usage
Usage note: Named after Japanese octopus trap; typically reversible unlike true myocardial infarction.
In Context
- "The characteristic apical ballooning pattern confirmed Tako-tsubo cardiomyopathy rather than anterior MI." — Echocardiography report
- "Postmortem examination showed minimal myocyte necrosis typical of Tako-tsubo cardiomyopathy." — Forensic autopsy report