An Update on Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy

Abstract

Purpose of Review: To provide an update on the use of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Recent Findings: Long-term prognosis of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy may not be as clear-cut as previously thought. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging not only allows differentiation between reversible and nonreversible changes but has an emerging role in identifying cellular level changes associated with prognostic indicators such as myocardial energetics using 31P-CMR spectroscopy and detection of myocardial inflammation overlying myocardial oedema, using ultrasmall paramagnetic iron oxide particle uptake in macrophages. Summary: Takotsubo cardiomyopathy is a non-ischemic acute heart failure syndrome. It is commonly triggered by emotional or physical stress and is possibly the strongest psychosomatic interaction seen in medicine. While clinically its presentation mimics a myocardial infarction, the acute imaging characteristics are critical in correctly identifying the disease entity.