TAKOTSUBO SYNDROME (APICAL BALLOONING SYNDROME)

Course overview

Takotsubo syndrome (TS; also known as stress myocardiopathy, Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, and “broken heart” syndrome) is a transient left ventricular (LV) dysfunction that mimics acute coronary syndrome. It is often triggered by severe emotional stress (i.e., sudden loss of a loved one, thus the name “broken heart syndrome”), and occurs almost exclusively in postmenopausal women. This continuing education module is designed to give the reader/learner an increased understanding of TS, its clinical presentation, symptoms, and treatment for patients with this diagnosis. Readers may explore any or all of the topics. One contact hour of continuing education credit is available for those who successfully complete the post-test and evaluation form.