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Catheter Ablation in Combination With Left Atrial Appendage Closure for Atrial Fibrillation
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Atrial fibrillation in the elderly: a risk factor beyond stroke

Leonardo Bencivenga1, Klara Komici2, Pierangela Nocella3

  • 1Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Italy; Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Italy.

Ageing Research Reviews
|June 2, 2020
PubMed

Insights

Atrial fibrillation (AF), a common heart rhythm disorder, increases with age and leads to complications beyond stroke, particularly in older adults. This review focuses on these less-studied AF complications in the elderly population.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Geriatrics
  • Internal Medicine

Background:

  • Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most prevalent arrhythmia globally, with prevalence increasing significantly with age.
  • AF is a known risk factor for ischemic stroke and systemic embolism, contributing to substantial morbidity and mortality.
  • Beyond stroke, AF is linked to other serious conditions including heart failure, cognitive decline, and reduced quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current evidence on atrial fibrillation complications beyond stroke.
  • To focus specifically on the implications and management of these complications in the elderly population.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of updated evidence.
  • Focus on studies concerning elderly patients (over 65 years).

Main Results:

  • AF complications in the elderly are complex due to aging heterogeneity and comorbidities.
  • Evidence for managing AF complications beyond stroke in older adults is limited.
  • AF contributes to heart failure, pulmonary embolism, physical impairment, mood disorders, and cognitive impairment in the elderly.

Conclusions:

  • Management of AF in the elderly is challenging due to multiple health issues.
  • Further research and evidence-based guidelines are needed for AF complications in older adults.
  • Addressing AF complications beyond stroke is crucial for improving health outcomes in the aging population.

Keywords:
Atrial fibrillationCognitive impairmentElderlyHeart failureMood disordersPhysical impairmentQuality of life

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