Management of Tako-tsubo syndrome.
BACKGROUND
This manuscript reviews the current evidence for proposed pathophysiological mechanisms of Tako-tsubo syndrome and its management.


CONCLUSIONS
The Tako-tsubo syndrome is defined by the presence of transient left ventricular apical ballooning after an acute coronary syndrome in patients with angiographically normal coronary arteries. Intriguingly, only the apex is affected and compensatory basal hypercontractility is seen. Several mechanisms have been offered as explanations for the characteristic clinical presentation and echocardiographic appearance of this syndrome.


CONCLUSIONS
Tako-tsubo syndrome encompasses heterogeneous patient populations and it is likely that different pathogenic mechanisms may operate in different patients. Treatment of the condition is at present empirical and aimed at preserving ventricular function.
Tarkin
Jason M
JM
Cardiovascular Biology Research Centre, Division of Cardiac and Vascular Sciences, St. George's, University of London, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 ORE, UK.
Khetyar
Maher
M
Kaski
Juan C
JC
D054058:Acute Coronary Syndrome / Q000150:complications; D000818:Animals; D017023:Coronary Angiography; D003331:Coronary Vessels / Q000378:metabolism; D004452:Echocardiography; D006801:Humans; D054549:Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology / Q000503:physiopathology*; D018487:Ventricular Dysfunction, Left / Q000209:etiology