Prevalence, Clinical Characteristics, and Predictors of Patients with Thromboembolic Events in Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy

Ventricular Tachycardia in Patients With Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy: Prevalence, Predictors, and Associated In-Hospital Adverse Events

Introduction  The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of ventricular tachycardia (VT) among patients admitted with takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) as well as to analyze the predictors of VT and the predictors of mortality among patients admitted with TCM. Methods Data were obtained from the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database from January 2016 to December 2019. Patients with a primary diagnosis of TCM were selected using ICD-10 code I51.81. Subsequently, the study population was divided into patients who developed VT vs. patients who did not develop this complication. We then used multivariate logistic regression to assess the predictors of VT in our patient cohort as well as the predictors of mortality among patients admitted with TCM. Results  Of 40114 patients with TCM, 1923 developed VT (4.8%) during their hospital stay. Predictors of VT include atrial fibrillation (AF) (adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 1.592; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.00-1.424; p=0.001), congestive heart failure (aOR: 1.451; 95% CI: 1.307-1.610; p=0.001), coagulopathy (aOR: 1.436; 95% CI: 1.150-1.793; p=0.001), and patients who self-identify in the race category as Other (aOR: 1.427; 95% CI: 1.086-1.875; p=0.011). Female sex was found to be protective against VT (aOR: 0.587; 95% CI: 0.526-0.656; p=0.001). Predictors of mortality among patients admitted with TCM include, among other factors, age (aOR: 1.014; 95% CI: 1.011-1.018; p=0.001), Asian or Pacific Islander race (aOR: 1.533; 95% CI: 1.197-1.964; p=0.001), Black race (aOR: 1.242; 95% CI: 1.062-1.452; p=0.007), VT (aOR: 1.754; 95% CI: 1.505-2.045; p=0.001), and AF (aOR: 1.441; 95% CI: 1.301-1.597; p=0.001). Some comorbidities that were protective against mortality in TCM include tobacco use disorder (aOR: 0.558; 95% CI: 0.255-0.925; p=0.028) and obstructive sleep apnea (aOR: 0.803; 95% CI: 0.651-0.990; p=0.028). The female sex was found to be protective against mortality (aOR: 0.532; 95% CI: 0.480-0.590; p=0.001).  Conclusion  In a large cohort of women admitted with TCM, we found the prevalence of VT to be 4.8%. Predictors of VT included conditions such as AF and congestive heart failure. The female sex was found to be protective against VT and protective against mortality among patients admitted with TCM.

Sex Difference in Clinical and Management Outcomes in Patients With Takotsubo Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is being increasingly recognized globally with a female sex predilection. However, sex-related differences in clinical outcomes are yet to be identified. Therefore, we aim to investigate the sex differences in clinical outcomes in patients with TTS. We included cohort studies retrieved from the Web of Science, SCOPUS, EMBASE, PubMed, and Cochrane until September 14, 2022. The risk ratio (RR) for dichotomous outcomes with the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) was used. The study protocol was registered in PROSPERO with ID: CRD42022363349. Thirteen retrospective cohort studies, with a total of 104,410 patients were included. Men had a higher risk of in-hospital mortality (RR: 2.42 with 95% CI [1.53, 3.83], P = 0.0002), long-term mortality (RR: 1.59 with 95% CI [1.40, 1.80], P = 0.00001), cardiogenic shock (RR: 1.65 with 95% CI [1.52, 1.79], P = 0.00001), arrhythmia (RR: 1.70 with 95% CI [1.56, 1.86], P = 0.00001), and acute kidney injury (RR: 1.71 with 95% CI [1.50, 1.96]. P = 0.00001), as compared with women. However, no significant difference was observed in stroke (RR: 1.22 with 95% CI [0.78, 1.89], P = 0.39), left ventricular thrombus (RR: 0.96 with 95% CI [0.40, 2.33], P = 0.93), and TTS recurrence (RR: 1.11 with 95% CI [0.68, 1.82], P = 0.67) between men and women. Despite women having a higher incidence of TTS, men have higher morbidity and mortality rates. Hence, further studies are necessary to identify the pathophysiological factors of this sex difference in clinical outcomes, including hormonal and psychological variables.

Trigger related outcomes of takotsubo syndrome in a cancer population

Background

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) occurs more frequently in cancer patients than in the general population, but the effect of specific TTS triggers on outcomes in cancer patients is not well studied.

Objectives

The study sought to determine whether triggering event (chemotherapy, immune-modulators vs. procedural or emotional stress) modifies outcomes in a cancer patient population with TTS.

Methods

All cancer patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) between December 2008 and December 2020 at our institution were enrolled in the catheterization laboratory registry. Demographic and clinical data of the identified patients with TTS were retrospective collected and further classified according to the TTS trigger. The groups were compared with regards to major adverse cardiac events, overall survival and recovery of left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and global longitudinal strain (GLS) after TTS presentation.

Results

Eighty one of the 373 cancer patients who presented with ACS met the Mayo criteria for TTS. The triggering event was determined to be "cancer specific triggers" (use of chemotherapy in 23, immunomodulators use in 7, and radiation in 4), and "traditional triggers" (medical triggers 22, and procedural 18 and emotional stress in 7). Of the 81 patients, 47 died, all from cancer-related causes (no cardiovascular mortality). Median survival was 11.9 months. Immunomodulator (IM) related TTS and radiation related TTS were associated with higher mortality during the follow-up. Patients with medical triggers showed the least recovery in LVEF and GLS while patients with emotional and chemotherapy triggers, showed the most improvement in LVEF and GLS, respectively.

Conclusion

Cancer patients presenting with ACS picture have a high prevalence of TTS due to presence of traditional and cancer specific triggers. Survival and improvement in left ventricular systolic function seem to be related to the initial trigger for TTS.

Kidney Failure among Patients with Takotsubo Syndrome or Myocardial Infarction: A Retrospective Analysis

Background: Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is a syndrome with ambiguous pathophysiology. Impaired kidney function (KF) seems to impact the outcome of patients with TTS. We hypothesized that KF worsens the outcome among TTS patients and furthermore, TTS patients with concomitant KF experience more adverse events compared to myocardial infarction (MI) patients with concomitant KF. Methods and Results: This retrospective single-center study comprised two groups (cohorts) of patients including patients with TTS and concomitant KF (n = 61, 27.1%) and patients with MI and concomitant KF (n = 164, 72.9%). The clinical outcomes were delineated as short-term outcomes defined as in-hospital adverse events during index hospitalization and long-term outcomes defined as adverse events over five-year clinical follow-ups. All-cause mortality, stroke, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), life-threatening arrhythmias, need for respiratory support, and cardiogenic shock with subsequent use of inotropic agents during index hospitalization were denoted as in-hospital adverse events. All-cause mortality, rehospitalization due to heart failure, stroke, thromboembolic events, and the recurrence of primary pathology (TTS and MI) were analyzed during five-year follow-ups after index hospitalization. A higher mortality rate was noted among TTS patients with KF compared to TTS without KF. In addition, in-hospital event rates in patients with TTS and concomitant KF compared to MI and concomitant KF were comparable with the exception of a higher rate of respiratory support in TTS patients. The mortality rate was significantly higher among patients with TTS and KF at 4 years (29.5% vs. 15.9%, p = 0.02) and 5 years (34.4% vs. 20.7%, p = 0.03) in comparison to patients with MI and concomitant KF. In contrast, the rate of re-hospitalization related to heart failure was higher at 30 days, and at one-, four-, and five-year follow-ups in patients suffering from MI and KF compared to TTS and concomitant KF. Additionally, the recurrence of MI after 4 and 5 years was higher than the recurrence of TTS (4.9% vs. 15.2%; 4.9% vs. 16.5%). There were no differences in life-threatening arrhythmias and stroke in both groups. Conclusions: Patients with TTS and concomitant KF have higher all-cause mortality when compared to MI and concomitant KF. The mechanisms responsible remain to be determined.

Case Report: Takotsubo Syndrome Induced by Severe Anaphylactic Reaction During Anesthesia Induction and Subsequent High-Dose Epinephrine Resuscitation

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is a type of non-ischemic cardiomyopathy characterized by an acute reversible left ventricular dysfunction with typical apical ballooning, usually with subsequent complete recovery. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are of great essence. Herein, we described a case of TTS of a patient who was scheduled initially for laparoscopic endometrial cancer staging. The 69-year-old woman presented with cardiogenic shock induced by the severe anaphylactic reaction to the antibiotics during anesthesia induction. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was implemented while several boluses of 1 mg epinephrine were injected. After the return of spontaneous circulation, a large number of orange peel-like rash appeared on the head, face, neck, and trunk of the patient. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) revealed diffused decreased left ventricular systolic function. Therefore, veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) and intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) were applied in the intensive care unit. Biomarkers like cardiac troponin I (cTnI) subsequently decreased with improved cardiac insufficiency. Finally, the patient was discharged in good condition. This case demonstrated that TTS could be secondary to severe anaphylactic shock and exogenous catecholamines. With the consideration of the reversible condition and predictable recovery of TTS, early vigilance and advanced life support devices should be necessary.

Glucose Counteracts Isoprenaline Effects on Ion Channel Functions in Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cardiomyocytes

Recent studies indicate that the disorder of glucose metabolism in myocardial tissue is involved in the development of Takotsubo syndrome (TTS). This study investigated the effects of a high level of glucose on the pathogenesis of TTS, focusing on the electrophysiological mechanisms. Human-induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (hiPSC-CMs) were treated with toxic concentration of isoprenaline (Iso, 1 mM) and a high level of glucose (22 mM) to mimic the setting of TTS and diabetes mellitus (DM). Iso prolonged action potential duration (APD) through enhancing the late sodium channel current and suppressing the transient outward potassium current (Ito). However, a high level of glucose prevented the APD prolongation and the change in Ito. High-level glucose reduced the expression levels of PI3K/Akt, β1-adrenoceptors, Gs-protein, and PKA, suggesting their involvement in the protective effects of high-level glucose against toxic effects of catecholamine. High glucose level did not influence Iso-induced ROS-generation, suggesting that the protective effects of high-level glucose against Iso did not result from changes in ROS generation. High-level glucose may protect cardiomyocytes from the toxic effects of catecholamine excess through suppressing β1-adrenoceptor-Gs-PKA signaling. DM may reduce the risk for occurrence of arrhythmias due to QT prolongation in TTS patients.

Anticoagulation in cardiomyopathy: unravelling the hidden threat and challenging the threat individually

Cardiomyopathy comprises a heterogeneous group of myocardial abnormalities, structural or functional in nature, in the absence of coronary artery disease and other abnormal loading conditions. These myocardial pathologies can result in premature death or disability from progressive heart failure, arrhythmia, stroke, or other embolic events. The European Cardiomyopathy Registry reports a high stroke risk in cardiomyopathy patients ranging from 2.1% to 4.5%, as well as high prevalence of atrial fibrillation ranging from 14.0% to 48.5%. There is a growing interest in evaluating the risk of thromboembolism depending on the type of cardiomyopathy, as well as if anticoagulation is indicated in patients with cardiomyopathy without atrial fibrillation. Data available do not unequivocally support anticoagulation therapy in all of these patients; the management of these patients remains challenging. Many published reports pertaining to the risk of thromboembolism and consecutive treatment strategies mainly focus on single cardiomyopathy subtype. We summarize essential pathophysiological knowledge and review current literature associated with thromboembolism in various cardiomyopathy subtypes, providing recommendations for the diagnostic evaluation as well as clinical management strategies in this field. Certain cardiomyopathy subtypes require anticoagulation independent of atrial fibrillation or CHA2 DS2 -VASc score. Despite the scarcity of evidence regarding the choice of anticoagulation regimen (vitamin K antagonist vs. non-vitamin K oral anticoagulants) in cardiomyopathy, it is discussed and reviewed in this article. Each patient should receive a tailored strategy based on thorough clinical evaluation, published evidence, and clinical experience, due to the current recommendations mostly developed on small-sample studies or empirical evidence. The future research priorities in this area are also addressed in this article.

Trends, Predictors and Outcomes of Ischemic Stroke Among Patients Hospitalized with Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy

OBJECTIVES

This study assessed the temporal trends in the incidence of ischemic stroke among patients hospitalized with takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) stratified by the subtypes of ischemic stroke (cardioembolic versus thrombotic). Predictors of each stroke subtype, the association with atrial fibrillation (AF), the occurrence of ventricular fibrillation/ventricular tachycardia (VF/VT), cardiogenic shock (CS), in-hospital mortality, length of stay (LOS), and total healthcare cost were also assessed.

BACKGROUND

Ischemic stroke in TCM is thought to be primarily cardioembolic from left ventricular mural thromboembolism. Limited data are available on the incidence of thrombotic ischemic stroke in TCM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We identified 27,970 patients hospitalized with the primary diagnosis of TCM from the 2008 to 2017 National Inpatient Sample, of which 751 (3%) developed ischemic stroke. Of those with ischemic stroke, 571 (76%) had thrombotic stroke while 180 (24%) had cardioembolic stroke. Cochrane armitage test was used to assess the incidence of thrombotic and cardioembolic strokes and multivariate regression was used to identify risk factors associated with each stroke subtype. We compared the incidence of AF, VF/VT, CS, LOS, in-hospital mortality and total cost between hospitalized patients with TCM alone to those with cardioembolic and thrombotic strokes.

RESULTS

From 2008 - 2017, the incidence of thrombotic stroke (4.7%-9.5% (p< 0.0001) increased while it was unchanged for cardioembolic stroke (0.5%-0.7% P=0.5). In the multivariate regression, peripheral artery disease, prior history of stroke, and hyperlipidemia were significantly associated with thrombotic stroke, while CS, AF, and Asian race (compared to White race) were associated with cardioembolic stroke. Both cardioembolic and thrombotic strokes were associated with higher odds of IHM, AF, CS, longer LOS and increased cost. Trends in in-hospital mortality and the utilization of thrombolysis, cerebral angiography, and mechanical thrombectomy among patients with TCM and ischemic stroke were unchanged from 2008 to 2017.

CONCLUSION

Among patients with TCM and ischemic stroke, thrombotic stroke was more common compared to cardioembolic stroke. Ischemic stroke was associated with poorer outcomes, including higher in-hospital mortality and increased healthcare resource utilization in TCM.

Stroke Risk Following Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy

Background and Purpose

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, also known as stress cardiomyopathy, is an increasingly recognized cause of left ventricular dysfunction. Previously considered a benign disease, Takotsubo cardiomyopathy may be a risk factor of ischemic stroke based on recent small, single-center case series. The strength and temporal profile of this association remains uncertain.

Methods

We performed a cohort-crossover study using administrative claims data on all emergency department visits and acute care hospitalizations from 2005 to 2015 in California, New York, and Florida. We identified patients with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, excluding those with a prior or concomitant stroke diagnosis. We compared the risk of ischemic stroke in the first year after Takotsubo cardiomyopathy to the risk of ischemic stroke in the second year after Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy and ischemic stroke were ascertained using previously validated ICD-9-CM codes. Absolute risks and odds ratios (OR) were calculated using McNemar test for matched data.

Results

Among 5283 patients with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (mean age, 67 years; 92% female), we identified 49 ischemic strokes during the first year after Takotsubo cardiomyopathy versus 19 ischemic strokes during the second year after. The risk of stroke was significantly higher in the year after Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (absolute increase, 0.6%; 95% CI: 0.2-0.9; OR: 2.6; 95% CI: 1.5-4.6) as compared to the control period.

Conclusion

We found a heightened risk of ischemic stroke in the year after a diagnosis of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, although the absolute risk increase was small.

Left Ventricular Thrombi and Embolic Events in Takotsubo Syndrome despite Therapeutic Anticoagulation

INTRODUCTION

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) may be complicated by left-ventricular (LV) thrombus formation in 1.3-5.3% of patients. Risk factors for thrombi comprise apical TTS, elevated levels of C-reactive protein and troponine, thrombocytosis, persisting ST segment elevation and right-ventricular involvement. Embolic risk appears high, and anticoagulation is recommended.

CASE PRESENTATION

We present 3 females, aged 60-82 years, with TTS-associated LV thrombi and cerebral embolism despite therapeutic anticoagulation. Two patients showed apical and 1 patient midventricular ballooning. In 2 patients LV thrombi had not been present at the first echocardiographic examination. LV thrombi were multiple and highly mobile in 2 patients; 1 patient had a single immobile thrombus associated with spontaneous echocardiographic contrast (SEC). In each case, 3 of the described risk factors for LV thrombus formation were identified. The embolic stroke occurred 41-120 h after TTS symptom onset and 21-93 h after the initiation of therapeutic anticoagulation. Two patients were discharged with a neurological deficit, and 1 of them eventually died as a consequence of the stroke. LV thrombectomy to prevent embolism, which has been reported in a small number of cases, had not been considered in our patients.

CONCLUSION

At present, the management of patients with TTS-related thrombi is still unclear, and further studies are urgently needed to assess the best methods for imaging and anticoagulation and to determine the role of thrombolysis and cardiac surgery. Until these studies are available, we suggest the following approach: patients with a TTS-related thrombus should be monitored by echocardiography while receiving anticoagulation. In case of highly mobile LV thrombi, the heart team may consider cardiac surgery to prevent systemic embolism. The role of SEC in TTS remains to be determined.

Novel Aspects of Classification, Prognosis and Therapy in Takotsubo Syndrome

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) can be considered a transient form of acute heart failure that mimics an acute coronary syndrome. Although many hypotheses have been formulated, the precise physiopathology of TTS remains unknown. TTS is associated with a heterogeneous clinical course, which ranges from benign to poor outcome, comprising life-threatening phenotypes. In the acute phase, TTS patients may experience complications including left ventricular outflow tract obstruction, cardiogenic shock, arrhythmias and thromboembolic events. Furthermore, after the acute episode, physiological abnormalities can persist and some patients continue to suffer cardiac symptoms. To recognise patients at higher risk earlier, many variables have been proposed and risk stratifications suggested. There is no solid evidence regarding specific therapy and the proper management of TTS patients, either in the acute phase or long term. This review describes the current knowledge regarding diagnostic criteria, prognosis and therapy in TTS.

Intraventricular Thrombus Formation and Embolism in Takotsubo Syndrome

Objective:

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is characterized by acute left ventricular dysfunction, which can contribute to intraventricular thrombus and embolism. Still, prevalence and clinical impact of thrombus formation and embolic events on outcome of TTS patients remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate clinical features and outcomes of patients with and without intraventricular thrombus or embolism. Additionally, factors associated with thrombus formation or embolism, as well as predictors for mortality, were identified.

Approach and Results:

TTS patients enrolled in the International Takotsubo Registry at 28 centers in Australia, Europe, and the United States were dichotomized according to the occurrence/absence of intraventricular thrombus or embolism. Patients with intraventricular thrombus or embolism were defined as the ThrombEmb group. Of 1676 TTS patients, 56 (3.3%) patients developed intraventricular thrombus and/or embolism following TTS diagnosis (median time interval, 2.0 days [range, 0–38 days]). Patients in the ThrombEmb group had a different clinical profile including lower left ventricular ejection fraction, higher prevalence of the apical type, elevated levels of troponin and inflammatory markers, and higher prevalence of vascular disease. In a Firth bias-reduced penalized-likelihood logistic regression model apical type, left ventricular ejection fraction ≤30%, previous vascular disease, and a white blood cell count on admission >10×10 3 cells/μL emerged as independent predictors for thrombus formation or embolism.

Conclusions:

Intraventricular thrombus or embolism occur in 3.3% of patients in the acute phase of TTS. A simple risk score including clinical parameters associated with intraventricular thrombus formation or embolism identifies patients at increased risk.

Clinical Trial Registration:

URL: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov . Unique identifier: NCT01947621.

Takotsubo syndrome and cardiac implantable electronic device therapy

Recent studies have reported that takotsubo syndrome (TTS) patients are suffering from life-threatening arrhythmias. The aim of our study was to understand the short and long-term usefulness of cardiac implantable electronic devices in TTS patients.We constituted a collective of 142 patients in a bi-centric study diagnosed with TTS between 2003 and 2017. The patient groups, divided according to the treatment with (n = 9, 6.3%) or without cardiac devices (n = 133, 93.7%), were followed-up to determine the importance of devices and its complications. One patient was treated with a permanent pacemaker, five patients with a wearable cardioverter defibrillator, two patients with a subcutaneous defibrillator and one patient with a transvenous defibrillator. Regular device check-up was documented in all patients, presenting an ongoing high-degree AV-block. Neither device complications nor life-threatening tachyarrhythmias were documented after acute TTS event. However, patients comprising the device group suffered significantly more often from a highly reduced EF (30 ± 7.7% versus 39.1 ± 9.7%; p < 0.05), cardiogenic shock with use of inotropic agents (66.6% versus 16.6%; p < 0.05) and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (44.4% versus 5.3%; p < 0.05). Our data confirm the usefulness of pacemaker in TTS patients. However, the cardioverter defibrillator including wearable cardioverter defibrillator may not be recommended.

Impact of Acute Cardiac Complications After Subarachnoid Hemorrhage on Long-Term Mortality and Cardiovascular Events

Background

Cardiac complications frequently occur after subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) and are associated with an increased risk of neurological complications and poor outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of acute cardiac complications after SAH on long-term mortality and cardiovascular events.

Methods

All patients admitted to our Neuro intensive care unit with verified SAH from January 2010 to April 2015, and electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, and troponin T or NTproBNP data obtained within 72 h of admission were included in the study. Mortality data were obtained from the Swedish population register. Data regarding cause of death and hospitalization for cardiovascular events were obtained from the Swedish Board of Health and Welfare.

Results

A total of 455 patients were included in the study analysis. There were 102 deaths during the study period. Cardiac troponin release (HR 1.08, CI 1.02–1.15 per 100 ng/l, p = 0.019), NTproBNP (HR 1.05, CI 1.01–1.09 per 1000 ng/l, p = 0.018), and ST-T abnormalities (HR 1.53, CI 1.02–2.29, p = 0.040) were independently associated with an increased risk of death. However, these associations were significant only during the first 3 months after the hemorrhage. Cardiac events were observed in 25 patients, and cerebrovascular events were observed in 62 patients during the study period. ST-T abnormalities were independently associated with an increased risk of cardiac events (HR 5.52, CI 2.07–14.7, p < 0.001), and stress cardiomyopathy was independently associated with an increased risk of cerebrovascular events (HR 3.65, CI 1.55–8.58, p = 0.003).

Conclusion

Cardiac complications after SAH are associated with an increased risk of short-term death. Patients with electrocardiogram abnormalities and stress cardiomyopathy need appropriate follow-up for the identification of cardiac disease or risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s12028-018-0558-0) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Gender-based comparison of takotsubo syndrome versus myocardial infarction

BACKGROUND

Takotsubo Syndrome (TTS) is an acute reversible left ventricular dysfunction. Recently published studies have highlighted a similar mortality rate as acute coronary syndrome (ACS). We compared the impact of gender differences on the outcome of TTS patients as compared to ACS patient.

DESIGN AND METHODS

We included a collective of 138 patients TTS between 2003 and 2016 at our institution. Patients were divided according to their gender into two groups (Males n=21, 15% and females, n=117, 85%). They were compared with a cohort of 300 patients with a diagnosis of ACS.

RESULTS

On the acute phase, in male patients with TTS, a treatment with inotropic was more often required (33.3 vs. 11.5%, P<0.01), were more susceptible to cardiogenic shock (28.6 vs. 12.5%, P<0.04). Concerning the long-term prognosis after the acute event, male patients had higher all-cause mortality over long-term follow-up. A Kaplan-Meier analysis indicated that the mortality of male patients with TTS was significantly higher compared to male patients with ACS (log-rank <0.01), while there was no significant difference between female patients with TTS and ACS (log-rank =0.60, P=0.45). In a multivariate cox regression analysis, male gender (HR 2.7, 95% CI: 1.1-6.5, P=0.02) GFR <60 ml/min (HR 2.8, 95% CI: 1.2-6.0, P=0.01) and history of cancer (HR 3.6, 95% CI 1.4-9.3, P<0.01) were independent predictors of 5-year mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Considerable evidence suggests that TTS compared to ACS implicates more significant clinical short-term events on male patients and it may be associated with poorer long-term prognosis.

Impact of ST-segment elevation on the outcome of Takotsubo syndrome

Background

Recent studies have highlighted that Takotsubo syndrome (TTS), mimicking acute coronary syndrome (ACS), is associated with poor clinical outcome. TTS is associated with different repolarization disorders including ST-segment elevation. ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in ACS is associated with declined prognosis. However, the clinical and prognostic impact of ST-segment elevation on TTS remains lacking.

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the short- and long-term prognostic impact of ST-segment elevation on TTS patients as compared with STEMI patients.

Patients and methods

Our institutional database constituted a consecutive cohort of 138 TTS patients and 138 ACS patients matched for age and sex. TTS patients (n=41) with ST-segment elevation were compared with ACS patients with ST-segment elevation (n=64).

Results

Chest pain was significantly more documented in STEMI patients as compared with TTS patients (48.8% vs 78.1%; P<0.01). Cardiovascular risk factors such as diabetes mellitus (12.2% vs 29.7%; P=0.02) were significantly more presented in STEMI patients. Although the initial left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was more declined in TTS patients (39%±9% vs 45%±16%; P<0.01), the LVEF was more declined in STEMI patients at follow-up (54%±10% vs 45%±16%; P=0.04). Inhospital complications such as respiratory failure were significantly more presented in TTS patients (68.3% vs 20.3%; P<0.01). The short-term as well as the long-term morality was similar in both groups. In univariate analysis, male sex, ejection fraction (EF) <35%, glomerular filtration rate (GFR) <60 mL/min, cardiogenic shock, inotropic drugs, and history of cancer were predictors of 5-year mortality.

Conclusion

Rates of the long-term mortality in TTS patients with ST elevations are comparable with STEMI patients.

Takotsubo Syndrome: Clinical Features, Pathogenesis, Treatment, and Relationship with Cerebrovascular Diseases

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review paper aims to provide a complete and updated overview on the clinical and pathophysiological aspects of Takotsubo syndrome (TTS), including prognosis, therapy, and the association with cerebrovascular conditions.

RECENT FINDINGS

TTS is an increasingly recognized non-ischemic cardiomyopathy characterized by sudden, temporary weakening of the myocardium, of which the pathogenesis is unknown. Although pathogenesis of TTS remains unclear, a complex interaction between catecholamine-mediated stimulation, myocardial stunning, and subsequent stress-related myocardial dysfunction seems to be the main pathophysiological mechanism. Stroke is linked to TTS by a dual relationship since it may induce TTS by catecholamine release even if TTS itself also may be complicated by left ventricular thrombi leading to stroke. Given its possible complications, including the association with neurological diseases, both cardiologist and neurologists should be aware about TTS in order to diagnose it promptly and to initiate appropriate therapeutic measures.

Stress-induced thrombus: prevalence of thromboembolic events and the role of anticoagulation in Takotsubo cardiomyopathy

Background

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM), also known as stress-induced cardiomyopathy has a favorable prognosis with expected recovery in weeks. Left ventricular (LV) thrombus is a known complication of TCM, which can lead to embolization and potentially a stroke. The prevalence of LV thrombus and the role of anticoagulation have yet to be fully defined in this condition.

Methods

We performed a search of published literature through PubMed and Scopus, which identified 282 patients with TCM in whom the incidence of LV thrombus and/or thromboembolic event was reported. In order to contrast this to the current anticoagulation strategy of atrial fibrillation, the occurrence of LV thrombus was compared to the adjusted stroke rate using the CHADS2 score.

Results

Of the 282 patients identified through a literature search, 26 (9.2%) were noted to have a thromboembolic event in the setting of TCM. The incidence of thromboembolic event ranged from 5.3% to as high as 14.3%. When compared to the CH2sDS2-VASc score, the average incidence of LV thrombus in our study equated to a score between 4 and 5.

Conclusions

While the occurrence of LV thrombus in TCM is variable among studies, the average incidence remains relatively high. Thus, making LV thrombus a significant complication of stress-induced cardiomyopathy. Prophylactic anticoagulation until recovery may have a role in reducing the rate of LV thrombus. Further studies will be needed to determine the rate of embolization and utility of anticoagulation in TCM.

Incidence and Prognostic Relevance of Cardiopulmonary Failure in Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy

Recent studies have indicated that patients with takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC) have a higher mortality rate than the general population. There is a distinct possibility that TTC could be associated with adverse life-threatening complications like cardiopulmonary failure. Our institutional database constituted a collective of 114 patients diagnosed with TTC. The frequency, determinants and predictors of cardiopulmonary failure were assessed. The patients were subsequently classified into two groups based on the presence (n = 44, 38.6%) or absence (n = 70, 61.4%) of cardiopulmonary failure. Multivariable logistic-regression analysis identified impaired left ventricular function defined as ≤35% at presentation and life-threatening arrhythmia as a positive significant independent predictor of cardiopulmonary failure. A majority of the patients with cardiopulmonary failure were treated with either non-invasive or invasive ventilator support (88%), while 48% of the patients required treatment with catecholamine. The in-hospital mortality rate was greater in the cardiopulmonary failure group. Cardiopulmonary failure patients were at ongoing increased risk of death with a higher mortality at 30-day, 1-year and at 5 years of follow-up. Cardiopulmonary failure is a frequent complication in TTC with an increased short- and long-term mortality. Patient susceptible to this condition could be identified by a reduced ejection fraction and life-threatening arrhythmia.

Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy With a Rapidly Resolved Left Ventricular Thrombus

This article presents the case of a 53-year-old man who presented with acute right superficial femoral and popliteal arterial thrombosis for which he underwent an emergent uncomplicated thrombectomy. He denied preceding cardiovascular or neurologic symptomatology and had no history of coronary or peripheral arterial disease, trauma, hypercoagulability, or malignancy. However, he reported having several days of intense emotional stress prior to presentation. His cardiac exam was normal, his electrocardiogram showed normal sinus rhythm and nonspecific ST-T wave abnormalities, and his troponin levels were normal. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) revealed a large (2.4 × 2 cm) apical left ventricle (LV) thrombus, LV apical akinesis, and LV ejection fraction of 40% to 45%. Coronary angiography revealed only luminal irregularities. A repeat TTE performed 3 days after initiating unfractionated heparin revealed complete resolution of the LV thrombus. The patient had an uneventful clinical course and was discharged home in stable condition on oral anticoagulants. The lower incidence of LV thrombus in takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TC) of 1.3% in comparison to 4% to 8% in acute myocardial infarction due to coronary artery disease in the current era of early reperfusion may be explained by the lower extent of ischemic myocardial necrosis associated with TC. This case suggests that the lower extent of myocardial necrosis in TC may also lead to faster resolution of LV thrombus. Therefore, earlier follow-up with TTE (within 2 weeks) and shorter duration of anticoagulation (<3 months) may be considered in patients with TC complicated by LV thrombus formation with or without systemic embolism.

Activation of Inflammatory and Pro-Thrombotic Pathways in Acute Stress Cardiomyopathy

Stress cardiomyopathy (SCM) is a unique cardiac disorder that more often occurs in women. SCM presents in a similar fashion as acute myocardial infarction (AMI), with chest pain, ECG changes, and congestive heart failure. The primary distinguishing feature is the absence of thrombotic coronary occlusion in SCM. How this reduction in cardiac function occurs in the absence of coronary occlusion remains unknown. Therefore, we tested the hypothesis that a targeted proteomic comparison of patients with acute SCM and AMI might identify relevant mechanistic differences. Blood was drawn in normal controls (n = 6), women with AMI (n = 12), or women with acute SCM (n = 15). Two-week follow-up samples were available in AMI (n = 4) and SCM patients (n = 11). Relative concentrations of 1,310 serum proteins were measured in each of the 48 samples using the SOMAscan assay. Women with AMI had greater myocyte necrosis, as reflected by a higher peak troponin I concentration (AMI 32.03 ± 29.46 vs. SCM 2.68 ± 2.6 ng/ml, p < 0.05). AMI and SCM patients had equivalent reductions in left ventricular ejection fraction [LVEF (%) 39 ± 12 vs. 37 ± 12, p = 0.479]. In follow-up, women with SCM had a greater improvement in cardiac function [LVEF (%) 60 ± 7 vs. 45 ± 13, p < 0.001]. No differentially expressed proteins were detected (absolute log2-fold change >1; q < 0.05) between AMI and SCM in the acute or recovery phase. However, when we compared normal controls to patients with AMI, there was differential expression of 35 proteins. When we compared normal controls to patients with SCM, 45 proteins were differentially expressed. In comparison to normal controls, biological processes such as complement, coagulation, and inflammation were activated in both AMI and SCM. There were four proteins that showed a non-significant trend to be increased in acute SCM vs. AMI (netrin-1, follistatin-like 3, kallikrein 7, kynureninase). Despite a lesser degree of myocardial necrosis than AMI, SCM is characterized by a similar activation of inflammatory, complement, and coagulation pathways. These findings may explain reported thromboembolic complications in the short term and elevated risk of mortality in the long term of SCM.

Sex differences of in-hospital outcome and long-term mortality in patients with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy

Background

Previous studies revealed that patients with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TTC) have a higher mortality rate than the general population. It is still unclear whether sex differences may influence long-term prognosis of TTC patients. The purpose of this study was to determine whether sex differences do influence the short- and long-term outcomes of TTC.

Methods and results

A total of 114 patients with TTC were admitted to the University Medical Centre Mannheim from January 2003 to September 2015 and entered into the TTC database of the University Medical Centre Mannheim, and retrospectively analyzed. Patients were diagnosed by the Mayo Clinic criteria. All-cause mortality over mean follow-up of 1,529±1,121 days was revealed. Significantly more male patients died within long-term follow-up compared to female TTC patients (log-rank test; P=0.01). Most males died of noncardiac causes. In multivariate Cox regression analysis, the male sex (P=0.02, hazard ratio [HR] 2.8, 95% CI 1.1–7.2), the ejection fraction ≤35% (P=0.01, HR 3.3, 95% CI 1.2–9.2) and glomerular filtration rate <60 mL/min (P<0.01, HR 3.1, 95% CI 1.4–7.0) figured out as independent predictors of the adverse outcome.

Conclusion

This study shows that males suffering from TTC reveal a higher long-term all-cause mortality rate than females over a 5 year follow-up period.

Impact and management of left ventricular function on the prognosis of Takotsubo syndrome

BACKGROUND

Early research has proposed that patients with Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) could have a higher mortality rate than the general population. Our study was conducted to determine the short- and long-term outcome of TTS patients associated with a significantly compromised left ventricular function on hospital admission.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Our institutional database constituted a collective of 112 patients diagnosed with TTS between 2003 and 2015. The patients were classified into two groups based on the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), with those presenting with a LVEF > 35% on admission categorized into one group (n = 65, 58%) and those presenting with LVEF ≤ 35% (n=47, 42%) categorized into another group. The endpoint was the all-cause of mortality over a mean follow-up of 1529 ± 1121 days.

RESULTS

Preliminary results indicated that patients with an EF ≤ 35% had a significantly greater risk of developing life-threatening arrhythmias, and were much more likely to suffer from cardiogenic shock. Patients often required varying forms of mechanical respiratory support. The in-hospital mortality, 30-day mortality, 1-year mortality and ongoing long-term mortality was significantly higher in TTS patients with an EF ≤ 35%. In a multivariate Cox regression analysis, an EF ≤ 35% (HR 3·3, 95% CI: 1·2-9·2, P < 0·05) was identified as a strong independent predictor of the primary endpoint.

CONCLUSIONS

In-hospital events as well as short- and long-term mortality rates among TTS patients diagnosed with a significantly reduced LVEF on admission were significantly higher. There is an urgent need for randomized trials, which could help define uniform clinical management strategies for high risk TTS patients.