Takotsubo cardiomyopathy: in the heart of status epilepticus

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy: in the heart of status epilepticus Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, an acute left cardiac failure, is the consequence of a physical or emotionnal stress. A link with catecholaminergic storm could exist. The term "Takotsubo" refers to a jar that is used in Japan for trapping octopi. This shape looks like the peculiar LV ballooning evident on left ventriculogram. Among different triggers, since ten years, Takotsubo syndromes have been reported with status epilepticus. Treatment, after coronary thrombosis removal, includes symptomatic treatment of cardiac failure and removal of trigger. Takotsubo syndrome resolves in a short time with normalisation of the left ventricle function. A possible association with unexpected death in epileptic patients could enhance research for prevention of catecholaminergic storm during seizures.