Radiopraxis 2021; 14(04): 167-175
DOI: 10.1055/a-1469-8927
CPD-Fortbildung

Takotsubo – wenn Stress das Herz „bricht“

Takotsubo – When Stress „Breaks“ Your Heart
Jannis Wagner

Jeder kennt gebrochene Herzen, kaum einer die dazugehörige Kardiomyopathie. Jeder weiß, dass zu viel Stress langfristig schädlich ist; kaum einer weiß, dass zu viel Stress auch plötzlich tödlich sein kann. Takotsubo ist die Form, die beschreibt wie es aussieht, wenn Stress das Herz bricht.

Abstract

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is usually triggered by emotional or physical stress. Postmenopausal women are affected in about 90% of cases. Little is known about the underlying pathophysiology, but excess of stress hormones is crucial. There is a sudden onset of left-ventricular dilatation and dysfunction. Patients develop angina, dyspnea, fatigue and occasionally syncopes. They present with acute heart failure, in extensive cases signs of cardiogenic shock. One can observe abnormal repolarization on ECG, elevated markers of myocardial necrosis and a typical pattern of impaired systolic contraction on cardiac imaging (echo, levocardiography, MRI). Obstructive coronary artery disease is the main differential diagnosis and needs to be out ruled (coronary angiography, CT angiography). Treatment is supportive, there is no known specific therapy. Prognosis is good, usually heart function recovers within weeks.



Publication History

Article published online:
01 December 2021

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