Prevalence, pathogenesis, and impact of atrial fibrillation

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the prevalence, pathophysiology, and consequences of atrial fibrillation (AF) and the risk factors for the rhythm disturbance.

Summary: The prevalence of AF, a common age-related disorder that causes substantial morbidity and mortality, is increasing. Structural heart disease (e.g., coronary heart disease, hypertension, heart failure, valvular heart disease) is a common comorbidity of and risk factor for AF, although various other factors have been shown to play a role in the pathogenesis of this disorder. The risk for AF and ischemic stroke, a major complication of AF, can be estimated using risk-scoring systems. The rate of hospitalization for AF and the costs of treating AF are increasing in the United States.

Conclusion: Understanding the pathogenesis of and risk factors for AF and using risk-scoring systems to estimate the risk for AF and stroke can facilitate treatment of this rhythm disorder and potentially minimize its morbidity, mortality, and costs.