Takotsubo cardiomyopathy: Review of broken heart syndrome.

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, also known as broken heart syndrome, apical ballooning syndrome, or stress cardiomyopathy, occurs when a stressful emotional or physical event causes the left ventricle of the heart to dilate, leading to acute heart failure. The syndrome was first described in Japan in 1990. Signs and symptoms of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy are similar to acute myocardial infarction. The syndrome presents with similar ECG and biomarker indications, so it often goes undiagnosed until coronary angiography is performed and reveals no blockage. Treatment is largely supportive. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) may reduce the likelihood of recurrent episodes. Overall, the prognosis is very good, with about 95% of patients making a full recovery.