Related Experiment Videos
A review of atrial fibrillation
David Dang1, Raluca Arimie, L Julian Haywood
1University of California at San Diego School of Medicine, USA.
Insights
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common heart rhythm disorder that is increasing with age. This review covers AF
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Cardiac Electrophysiology
Background:
- Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent sustained cardiac arrhythmia.
- AF contributes significantly to healthcare utilization, including physician visits and hospitalizations.
- Increasing age is associated with a rising incidence of AF.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of atrial fibrillation.
- To discuss the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management of AF.
- To highlight the rapidly accumulating experience in managing this condition.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of atrial fibrillation pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and management.
- Synthesis of current knowledge and clinical experience in AF care.
Main Results:
- Atrial fibrillation presents a significant clinical challenge due to its high prevalence.
- Understanding the full clinical spectrum of AF is crucial for effective management.
- Current treatment regimens are continuously evolving with new experiences.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of atrial fibrillation requires up-to-date knowledge of its pathophysiology and clinical presentation.
- Ongoing accumulation of clinical experience is vital for refining treatment strategies for AF.
- This review underscores the importance of continuous learning in addressing this common cardiac arrhythmia.
Abstract:
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common sustained cardiac arrhythmia and accounts for more physician visits and hospital days than any other cardiac rhythm disturbance. Atrial filbrillation is incresing in frequency as the population ages, and therefore, a knowledge of the clinical spectrum and available treatment regimen is essential. Here, we review the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, and current status of management. Experience is being rapidly accumulated in all of the areas discussed in the management of this important clinical entity.