Screening for Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and atrial fibrillation (AF) are common conditions in the adult population and independently associated with increased morbidity and mortality. There is evidence, although not definitive, that OSA independently contributes to AF incidence and recurrence. Full polysomnography is expensive and may not be readily available to diagnose all patients with OSA and AF. Several patients with OSA do not present the classical signs and symptoms of OSA, impairing the accuracy of screening questionnaires for OSA. In this context, home sleep test is a promising alternative to screen and diagnose OSA in AF patients. However, the cost-effectiveness of such approach need to be studied.