Factors Associated with Recurrence in Takotsubo Syndrome: A Systematic Review

Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) is characterized by a temporary systolic dysfunction of the left ventricle (LV) related to a stressful event. However, the factors associated with its recurrence are still not well established.

To analyze the main factors associated with TTS recurrence.

A systematic review was performed using the PRISMA model. Observational studies, published between January 2008 and October 2017, which presented a recurrence rate of at least 3% and/or 5 or more patients with recurrence, and who met at least 80% of the STROBE criteria were included.

six articles reached the criteria to compose this systematic review. The recurrence rate ranged from 1 to 3.5% per year (global recurrence rate 3.8%). One study associated higher recurrence rate with the female gender, four reported the time between the first and second episodes, one study associated body mass index (BMI) and hypercontractility of the LV middle anterior wall to a higher recurrence rate. No association between recurrence and electrocardiographic changes were determined. Beta-blockers use was not associated with recurrence rates.

Female gender, time from the first episode of the syndrome, low BMI and midventricular obstruction were reported as potential predictors of TTS recurrence.