title: Challenges in the classification of atrial fibrillation.
abstract: The incidence and prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) are increasing worldwide. AF is of public health importance because it accounts for substantial morbidity, mortality, and health-care costs. AF may be transient initially, but many patients have progressive disease marked by increasing frequency and duration of episodes. Various classification schemes for AF have been proposed, although current guidelines are based on temporal rhythm-based patterns. We discuss existing schemes for the classification of AF, focusing on the advantages and limitations of the pattern-based scheme, in the context of new knowledge about AF pathophysiology, AF patterns, and clinical outcomes. Furthermore, we address gaps in knowledge that present opportunities to re-examine the current pattern-based classification of AF. A future classification scheme should ideally combine elements such as the risk of stroke, an assessment of symptoms, and the degree of impairment of the atrial substrate.
authors.affiliation: Cardiovascular Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, 149 13th Street, 4th Floor, Charlestown, MA 02129, USA.
authors.forename: Steven A
authors.initials: SA
authors.lastname: Lubitz
authors.forename: Emelia J
authors.initials: EJ
authors.lastname: Benjamin
authors.forename: Jeremy N
authors.initials: JN
authors.lastname: Ruskin
authors.forename: Valentin
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Fuster
authors.forename: Patrick T
authors.initials: PT
authors.lastname: Ellinor
mesh_terms: D001281:Atrial Fibrillation / Q000145:classification* / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D016275:Atrial Function; D018450:Disease Progression; D004562:Electrocardiography; D006329:Heart Conduction System / Q000503:physiopathology*; D006339:Heart Rate; D006801:Humans; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011379:Prognosis; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D009626:Terminology as Topic