Pathophysiology of atrial fibrillation: insights into the renin-angiotensin system

Abstract

Introduction: Atrial fibrillation is, to date, a major problem of public health with an important cost in the health care system.

Discussion: The therapeutic strategies for atrial fibrillation are complex and their outcomes have been disappointing globally. New ablative techniques have brought important advances but the patient's profile has to be taken into account in the choice of the therapeutic strategies. The renin-angiotensin system plays a major role in the phenomena of remodelling following the onset of atrial fibrillation.

Conclusion: Drugs blocking the renin-angiotensin system can have a real place in the treatment of atrial fibrillation, not only to maintain sinus rhythm but primarily to prevent cardiovascular accidents in these patients with atrial fibrillation and in some cases to prevent the occurrence of atrial fibrillation, for example in hypertensive patients.