Is There a Genetic Predisposition for Acute Stress-induced (Takotsubo) Cardiomyopathy
Is There a Genetic Predisposition for Acute Stress-induced (Takotsubo) Cardiomyopathy
Acute stress-induced (takotsubo) cardiomyopathy or broken heart syndrome presents like a
 heart attack, classically is triggered by intense emotional or physical stress and can have
 serious health consequences. In the current study the investigators wish to establish whether
 there is a genetic predisposition making certain people more susceptible to this condition.
 This could also have implications for their families.
Acute stress-induced (takotsubo) cardiomyopathy presents like a myocardial infarct, is
 triggered by intense emotional or physical stress, and can have catastrophic and potentially
 fatal consequences. Despite data linking takotsubo cardiomyopathy with conditions that have a
 recognized genetic predisposition (such as mental health and neurological problems), a
 systematic and comprehensive characterisation of the genetic-epidemiologic factors in
 takotsubo is lacking. The researchers propose to further investigate this disorder by
 collecting blood from probands and characterising the genotype of patients with takotsubo
 cardiomyopathy in a large scale, nationwide genome wide association study. The investigators
 will also archive DNA for identification of future candidate genetic variants. Ultimately,
 understanding the underlying predisposition of this poorly understood neuro-psycho-cardiac
 disorder is essential if we are to move this field forward.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  All patients who have been diagnosed with Takotsubo cardiomyopathy in Scotland between
 2010 to date.

 -  Familial cases elsewhere in the world who would be willing to participate.

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  Unwillingness to participate