Migraine and atrial fibrillation: a systematic review

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Adrian Scutelnic1, Heinrich P Mattle1, Mattia Branca2

  • 1Department of Neurology, Inselspital, University Hospital Bern, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.

European Journal of Neurology
|November 26, 2021
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Migraine with aura is linked to a higher risk of atrial fibrillation, a stroke risk factor. Screening for atrial fibrillation may be beneficial for migraine patients, especially those with aura.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Neurology
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Migraine is a recognized risk factor for stroke.
  • Atrial fibrillation is a significant contributor to stroke incidence.
  • Understanding the link between migraine and atrial fibrillation is crucial for stroke prevention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review existing literature on the association between migraine and atrial fibrillation.
  • To evaluate the clinical implications of this association for patient management and screening.

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive PubMed search was conducted using terms 'migraine' and 'atrial fibrillation'.
  • Original research articles investigating the association were selected for analysis.
  • Exclusion criteria included non-original data sources like reviews and editorials.

Main Results:

  • Twenty-two out of 109 identified publications were included in the review.
  • Population-based studies demonstrated a significant association between migraine with visual aura and incident atrial fibrillation.
  • Migraine without aura did not show a significant association in adjusted analyses.

Conclusions:

  • Population-based evidence supports a significant link between migraine with aura and atrial fibrillation.
  • Consider screening for atrial fibrillation in patients with a history of migraine, particularly those with aura.
  • Extensive atrial fibrillation screening is recommended for all patients with stroke or other relevant disorders, including those with migraine.
Keywords:
atrial fibrillationauracortical spreading depolarizationcortical spreading depressionmigrainestroke

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