EPIDEMIOLOGY OF PAROXYSMAL ATRIAL-FIBRILL ATION

The epidemiology of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) is poorly kno wn because of the difficulties in setting up trials to study this cond ition. Its biannual incidence is about 2 per thousand. Its prevalence is 1 to 2 % in a population of over 68 years of age. Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation is often asymptomatic. An initial episode of atrial fibr illation may remain a single event in a number of cases. Isolated paro xysmal atrial fibrillation progresses to permanent atrial fibrillation in about 20 % of cases, usually if there is underlying cardiac diseas e. Rheumatic valve disease, cardiac failure, hypertension, previous my ocardial infarction and cerebrovascular accidents are often associated with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation. Embolic complications are rare i f paroxysmal atrial fibrillation is isolated.