Atrial Fibrillation: Pathogenesis and Management

Atrial fibrillation (AF) refers to an abnormal heart condition that is characterized by the irregular and rapid beating of the atria. Certain risk factors associated with it include valvular heart disease, high blood pressure, cardiomyopathy, heart failure and congenital heart disease. Factors such as diabetes, excessive alcohol intake, smoking, thyrotoxicosis, obesity, sleep apnea, etc. can lead to atrial fibrillation. It is diagnosed by checking the pulse or by an electrocardiogram (ECG). The principal pathologic change due to atrial fibrillation is the progressive fibrosis of the atria. This triggers a chain of events, which leads to atrial remodeling and fibrosis along with the loss of muscle mass in the atrium. Management of AF aims to prevent circulatory instability and stroke. Anticoagulants, cardioversion, beta-blockers and non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers are recommended to control the heart rate. This book elucidates the concepts and innovative models around prospective developments with respect to the management of atrial fibrillation. It presents researches and studies performed on the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation by experts across the globe. The readers would gain knowledge that would broaden their perspective about atrial fibrillation.