Atrial fibrillation is associated with increased mortality in patients with chronic heart failure, although it remains unclear whether this relationship is causal.
This review highlights the prognostic relevance of atrial fibrillation in heart failure and discusses current strategies for rate control, rhythm control, and prevention.
Atrial fibrillation (AF) and chronic heart failure (CHF) are two major and even growing cardiovascular conditions that often coexist. However, few data are available to guide treatment of AF in patients with CHF. This review summarizes current literature concerning the following topics: (i) prognostic relevance of AF in patients with CHF, (ii) relevance and strategies of rhythm and rate control in patients with AF and CHF, and (iii) options for prevention of AF in patients with ventricular dysfunction. In conclusion, AF is associated with increased mortality in CHF patients. However, it is not clear whether there is a causal relationship. Emerging strategies to prevent the occurrence of AF are promising tools that might improve quality of life and survival in patients with CHF.
Neuberger et al. (2007) conducted a review in Atrial fibrillation and chronic heart failure. Management of atrial fibrillation was evaluated. Atrial fibrillation is associated with increased mortality in patients with chronic heart failure, although it remains unclear whether this relationship is causal.