The criteria to diagnose Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy include:

1. ECG evidence showing ST elevation or T wave inversions (TWI)

2. Absence of coronary artery disease on angiography

3. Absence of myocarditis

4. Elevated troponin levels

Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy occurs, typically in elderly women, who have had some kind of extremely stressful event. This can include major trauma, loss of a loved one, surgery, extreme fright, or even financial stress. Some symptoms include:

1. Dyspnea

2. Chest Pain

3. Heart Failure

4. Dizziness/Syncope

The exact mechanism of Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy is relatively unknown but there are a few theories. The most widespread theory is that it is caused by an influx of catecholamine levels caused by the stressful event. Catecholamines like epinephrine and norepinephrine cause the sympathetic nervous system to kick into overdrive. I want you to think of the most stressful time in your life and remember how your body was reacting to the stress. Your heart rate was increased and your heart was pounding in your chest. When these catecholamines enter your heart, they stimulate the beta-adrenergic receptors to increase the heart rate, inotropy, and can cause vasoconstriction. And as catecholamine levels increase, this can cause your myocardium to become stunned which can lead to left ventricular dysfunction along with microvascular spasms.