Management of atrial fibrillation in patients with heart failure.
Atrial fibrillation (AF) and chronic heart failure (CHF) are two major and even growing cardiovascular conditions that often coexist. However, few data are available to guide treatment of AF in patients with CHF. This review summarizes current literature concerning the following topics: (i) prognostic relevance of AF in patients with CHF, (ii) relevance and strategies of rhythm and rate control in patients with AF and CHF, and (iii) options for prevention of AF in patients with ventricular dysfunction. In conclusion, AF is associated with increased mortality in CHF patients. However, it is not clear whether there is a causal relationship. Emerging strategies to prevent the occurrence of AF are promising tools that might improve quality of life and survival in patients with CHF.
Neuberger
Hans-Ruprecht
HR
Klinik für Innere Medizin III, Kardiologie, Angiologie, und Internistische Intensivmedizin;, Universitätsklinikum des Saarlandes, D-66421 Homburg/Saar, Germany. h.neuberger@tiscali.de
Mewis
Christian
C
van Veldhuisen
Dirk J
DJ
Schotten
Ulrich
U
van Gelder
Isabelle C
IC
Allessie
Maurits A
MA
Böhm
Michael
M
D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000150:complications / Q000401:mortality / Q000628:therapy*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D006333:Heart Failure / Q000150:complications / Q000401:mortality / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans