Blood Pressure Variability and Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Acute ST Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction:

Ragab A Mahfouz1, Mohamed El-Shetry1, Abdelfattah Frere1

  • 1Cardiology Department, Zagazig University Hospital, Zagazig, Egypt.

Insights

High blood pressure variability (BPV) is linked to new-onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF) in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients. Increased BPV also correlates with atrial electromechanical delay (EMD), suggesting BPV may predict NOAF.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Electrophysiology
  • Hypertension Research

Background:

  • New-onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF) is a common complication in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients.
  • Blood pressure variability (BPV) and atrial electromechanical delay (EMD) are emerging factors influencing cardiovascular outcomes.
  • The relationship between short-term BPV and NOAF in STEMI patients requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between 24-h blood pressure variability (BPV) and atrial electromechanical delay (EMD).
  • To assess the predictive value of BPV for new-onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF) in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI).

Main Methods:

  • 175 STEMI patients undergoing primary percutaneous coronary intervention were enrolled.
  • 24-h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring was performed to assess BPV parameters, including SDdn.
  • Echocardiography and atrial EMD assessments were conducted; patients were stratified into low and high BPV groups.

Main Results:

  • Patients with high BPV (SDdn: 13.5 ± 2.9 mm Hg) had a significantly higher incidence of NOAF (28.9%) compared to those with low BPV (3.5%; p < 0.001).
  • High BPV was associated with increased left atrial volume index, E/e' ratio, and significantly prolonged inter- and intra-atrial EMD (p < 0.001).
  • SDdn and intra-atrial EMD were identified as independent predictors of NOAF in STEMI patients (OR = 3.75 and 2.72, respectively; p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

  • Short-term 24-h blood pressure variability is significantly associated with new-onset atrial fibrillation in STEMI patients.
  • Blood pressure variability demonstrates a significant correlation with atrial electromechanical delay.
  • BPV emerges as a potential early predictor for NOAF in the STEMI population.
Abstract

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