Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy: Clinical Epidemiology

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy has attracted considerable attention in recent years, but there remains too little known about its clinical epidemiology. Now, researchers report on data collected from 26 centers in the U.S. and Europe by the International Takotsubo Registry. The diagnostic criteria were transient left ventricular wall-motion abnormality extending beyond a coronary territory; new abnormalities on electrocardiography or elevated troponin levels; and the absence of pheochromocytoma, myocarditis, or evidence of type 1 acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

From 1998 through 2014, 1750 people with the disorder were identified (mean age, 66); 90% were women. About three quarters presented with chest pain, and an emotional trigger was reported by…