Mechanisms of Stroke in Atrial Fibrillation

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia and is associated with a high risk of stroke and thromboembolism. Increasing evidence suggests that the thrombogenic tendency inherent to atrial fibrillation is related to several underlying pathophysiological mechanisms, including reduced flow in the left atrium, changes in vessel walls, and changes in blood constituents. This article reviews the mechanisms of stroke, available risk stratification tools and therapies available for prevention of stroke in patients with atrial fibrillation.

Keywords: Atrial fibrillation; Cardiac arrhythmia; Stroke; Thromboembolism.