Abstract:

Takotsubo cardiomyopathy in children is an acute, reversible form of cardiomyopathy characterized by transient left ventricular systolic dysfunction. It exhibits distinct epidemiological, etiological, and clinical features compared to the adult population, with differences also evident in management strategies and prognostic outcomes. Although the incidence in pediatric patients is low, the condition is associated with substantial mortality. Neurological disorders are frequently identified as precipitating factors in this age group. Catecholamine excess is considered a central mechanism in the pathophysiology of the disease. Clinical presentation may mimic that of fulminant myocarditis, dilated cardiomyopathy, or sepsis-induced myocardial dysfunction, posing significant diagnostic challenges. Accurate differentiation among these entities is critical for optimizing patient outcomes. Echocardiography serves as a pivotal diagnostic tool, enabling real-time evaluation of regional wall motion abnormalities and ventricular morphology essential for differential diagnosis. This article aims to review key aspects of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy in children, clarify current understanding of its clinical spectrum, and enhance awareness and diagnostic precision among pediatric clinicians.

Key words: Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, catecholamine, heart failure, prognosis, child