INTRODUCTION:
Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a relatively common arrhythmia in the context of acute coronary syndromes (ACS). However, the impact of AF on these patients' survival is not well established. The present study aimed to estimate the prevalence of AF in ACS patients and to evaluate its impact on in-hospital and six-month post-event mortality, from any cause.
METHODS:
This was a retrospective cohort study that included 1183 patients admitted consecutively to a Coronary Care Unit with ACS. Demographic and clinical data and information from various complementary exams were collected and occurrence of AF during the first 48 hours of hospitalization was analyzed. Six-month follow-up was achieved in 95.9% of the patients. Logistic regression statistical analysis was used to identify independent predictors of in-hospital and six-month post-event mortality.
RESULTS:
AF was diagnosed in 140 patients (11.8%); these patients were older (73.89 +/- 8.69 vs. 63.20 +/- 12.73 years; p75 years, severe left ventricular dysfunction and heart failure. The performance of coronary angiography correlated with improved prognosis.
CONCLUSIONS:
AF in the context of ACS is an independent predictor of increased in-hospital and six-month mortality. These findings should be taken into consideration in the management and treatment of such patients
