Atrial fibrillation

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

Most common type of cardiac arrhythmia

Leading cause of cardiac stroke

It is characterised as a tachyarrhythmia (often includes a fast HR)

Question 2

Aetiology/ causes

Answer 2

Due to abnormal electrical activity within the atria of the heart, causing them to fibrillate (quivering movement)

Question 3

Risk factors

Answer 3

Increased age
High blood pressure
Underlying heart and lung disease
Congenital heart disease
Increased alcohol consumption

Question 4

Epidemiology/ Population affected

Answer 4

More common in white males

Risk increases with age (9% over 75 and 22% over 80)

Question 5

Clinical presentation

Answer 5

Can be asymptomatic
Chest pain
Palpitations
Increased HR
Shortness of breath
Nausea
Dizziness
Sweating
Generalised fatigue

Question 6

Prognosis

Answer 6

AF is associated with a high risk of thromboembolism and death

Rhythm control does not offer a survival advantage over rate control

The risk of stroke is ever-present, and the overall quality of life of patients is poor

Question 7

DDX

Answer 7

Atrial flutter
Atrial tachycardia
Multifocal atrial tachycardia
Wolf-Parkinson-White syndrome
Atrioventricular nodal reentry tachycardia.