Key result
Higher pericardial fat volume is independently linked to AF, measuring ~34% greater versus sinus rhythm.
Why the study?
Pericardial fat has inflammatory properties and inflammation and obesity are associated with AF, but the relationship between AF and pericardial fat was unknown.
Population
273 patients (76 in sinus rhythm, 126 paroxysmal AF, 71 persistent AF)
Comparison
Sinus rhythm vs paroxysmal AF vs persistent AF
Design
Observational study
Authors
Loading...
Should not yet change AF clinical practice; leaves open whether pericardial fat is causal or modifiable.
Observational (n=273)
Absolute Event Rate: 101.6% vs 76.1%
p-value: p=<0.001
Chekakie et al. (2010) conducted an observational in Atrial fibrillation (n=273). Pericardial fat volume vs. Sinus rhythm was evaluated on Pericardial fat volume (p=<0.001). Pericardial fat volume was significantly higher in patients with atrial fibrillation compared to sinus rhythm (101.6 vs 76.1 ml, p<0.001) and independently associated with AF.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: