Inflammation and atrial fibrillation: A comprehensive review

Abstract Atrial fibrillation (AF) has different underlying substrates. Atrial remodeling involves electrophysiological and structural abnormalities that promote the development and perpetuation of AF. Experimental and clinical data indicate that inflammation is implicated in the pathophysiology of a...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Panagiotis Korantzopoulos, Konstantinos P. Letsas, Gary Tse, Nikolaos Fragakis, Christos A. Goudis, Tong Liu
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Wiley 2018-08-01
Series:Journal of Arrhythmia
Subjects:
Online Access:https://doi.org/10.1002/joa3.12077
Description
Summary:Abstract Atrial fibrillation (AF) has different underlying substrates. Atrial remodeling involves electrophysiological and structural abnormalities that promote the development and perpetuation of AF. Experimental and clinical data indicate that inflammation is implicated in the pathophysiology of atrial remodeling. The mechanistic links between atrial remodeling and inflammation are complex while diverse underlying diseases and conditions may affect these pathways. Inflammatory markers have also been associated with AF development, recurrence, perpetuation, total AF burden as well as with thromboembolic complications. The development of specific anti‐inflammatory interventions in this setting seems to be challenging and complicated. Several agents with pleiotropic properties, including anti‐inflammatory, have been tested in experimental and clinical settings with variable results. This updated review provides a concise overview of all available data regarding the role of inflammation in AF including the predictive role of inflammatory markers. Also, current knowledge and future directions on anti‐inflammatory strategies are critically discussed.
ISSN:1880-4276
1883-2148