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Int J Angiol 2020; 29(02): 065-071
DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1705153
Invited Articles
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Etiology, Pathology, and Classification of Atrial Fibrillation

Authors

  • Srishti Nayak

    1   Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California

  • Balaji Natarajan

    2   University of California, Riverside School of Medicine, Riverside, California

  • Ramdas G. Pai

    2   University of California, Riverside School of Medicine, Riverside, California
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
29 March 2020 (online)

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Abstract

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a disorganized tachyarrhythmia with significant public health importance due to high morbidity, mortality, and health-care costs. Incidence rate of AF is on the rise and there are several modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors that are responsible. Exact mechanisms and pathogenesis of AF are still poorly understood, yet they still have great implications in management. The aim of this article is to summarize the epidemiology, major risk factors, and their role in the pathogenesis of AF. Finally, we have reviewed the classification of AF as per professional society guidelines.

Keywords

atrial fibrillation - etiology - pathology - classification - stroke - ablation - risk factors