Atrial fibrillation: modern concepts and management.
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common cardiac arrhythmia responsible for significant morbidity and mortality. In recent years, progress has been made in determining the genetic abnormalities that may lead to AF. New trials have shown that rate control and anticoagulation are acceptable as a primary treatment strategy in many patients who have a high risk of recurrence. Newer and safer antiarrhythmics are now available. Pacemaker and implantable cardiac defibrillator technology is rapidly evolving and may play a significant role in future treatment and prevention of AF. Direct thrombin inhibitors are likely to add a user-friendly option to the current standard therapy for stroke prevention.
Agarwal
Ashish
A
Department of Internal Medicine, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102, USA. ashishdoc@lycos.com
York
Meghan
M
Kantharia
Bharat K
BK
Ezekowitz
Michael
M
D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000008:administration & dosage; D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000235:genetics / Q000401:mortality / Q000628:therapy*; D002304:Cardiac Pacing, Artificial; D002423:Cause of Death; D004252:DNA Mutational Analysis; D004554:Electric Countershock; D004562:Electrocardiography; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease / Q000235:genetics; D005838:Genotype; D006801:Humans; D010641:Phenotype; D012075:Remission, Spontaneous; D020521:Stroke / Q000401:mortality / Q000517:prevention & control; D013923:Thromboembolism / Q000401:mortality / Q000517:prevention & control
D000889:Anti-Arrhythmia Agents; D000925:Anticoagulants