Atrial Fibrillation and Congestive Heart Failure: Specific Considerations at the Intersection of Two Common and Important Cardiac Disease Sets

Atrial fibrillation (AF) and congestive heart failure (CHF) are two increasingly common cardiac disorders with a growing prevalence in the overall population. Improved treatment of acute medical conditions has increased the incidence of these cardiac disorders. AF and CHF have similar epidemiologic characteristics and adversely affect quality of life and life expectancy of affected patients. CHF predisposes to AF, and AF may worsen the prognosis of CHF. The relevant literature was intensively reviewed with emphasis on aspects at the intersection of both disease sets. Recent advances in basic research have provided a more in-depth view of changes promoting the occurrence of AF in CHF. Data from clinical trials have provided means to improve medical treatment of AF. Precautions must be taken for specific CHF-related side effects, such as torsades de pointes tachycardia, when treating AF. The specific electrophysiologic basis of AF associated with CHF may provide targets for improved treatment modalities. New treatment approaches, both pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic, as well as the results of ongoing controlled clinical studies are likely to greatly alter AF therapy over the next 5 to 10 years in patients with CHF.