Takotsubo syndrome and heart transplantation: A reciprocate liaison?

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is a clinical syndrome characterized by transient left ventricular dysfunction, ischemic electrocardiographic changes, and minimal release of myocardial enzymes without obstructive coronary artery disease. This syndrome that mimics an acute myocardial infarction is prevalent among female patients and is regarded as a benign medical condition. The precise pathophysiological mechanism of TTS is complex and not completely understood, but specific emotional or physical events precipitate this syndrome that represents a typical condition characterized by interactions between cardiovascular and neuropsychological diseases. In addition, many different neurological disorders, such as stroke, subarachnoid bleeding, head injury, epilepsy, and bacterial meningitis, have directly or indirectly related to TTS; unfortunately, these acute neurological diseases represented the cause of death in patients nominated for organ donation and in particular for the heart donor. This article reviews the relationship between TTS and solid organ transplantation; in particular, this article highlights the possible mechanisms underlying the induction of TTS in pre- and post-transplantation phases and in heart-transplant patients.