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[Atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter: pathophysiology and pathogenesis]
1Medizinische Universitätsklinik und Poliklinik Bonn.
Zeitschrift Fur Kardiologie
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Chronic atrial fibrillation, a common heart rhythm disorder in older adults, can lead to serious health issues and increased mortality. Understanding its causes, including heart disease and metabolic disorders, is crucial for management.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Electrophysiology
Context:
- Chronic atrial fibrillation affects 2-4% of individuals over 60.
- Prevalence increases with age, driven by population aging.
- Historically linked to rheumatic heart disease, now more commonly associated with ischemic and hypertensive heart disease, and alcohol use.
Purpose:
- To review the epidemiology, causes, and mechanisms of chronic atrial fibrillation.
- To highlight the shift in common etiologies over time.
- To discuss the implications for patient outcomes.
Summary:
- Atrial fibrillation is a prevalent arrhythmia associated with significant morbidity and mortality.
- While organic heart disease and metabolic disorders are common causes, approximately 15% of cases have no identifiable underlying abnormality.
- The underlying mechanism is likely due to multiple reentrant wave fronts within the atria.
Impact:
- Increased understanding of atrial fibrillation's diverse causes and increasing prevalence.
- Highlights the association with serious adverse events like impaired cardiac function and thromboembolism.
- Emphasizes the overall increased mortality risk in affected patients.