A. Goette et al., Effect of successful electrical cardioversion on serum aldosterone in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation, AM J CARD, 88(8), 2001, pp. 906
Citations number
15
Categorie Soggetti
Cardiovascular & Respiratory Systems","Cardiovascular & Hematology Research
Chronic elevations in systemic aldosterone levels are responsible for many
adverse effects in humans, including enhanced potassium and magnesium excre
tion, decreased myocardial reuptake of catecholamines, myocardial fibrosis,
and baroreceptor dysfunction.(1-4) Recently, the beneficial effect of aldo
sterone antagonists on myocardial performance has been clearly shown in pat
ients with heart failure.(5-7) Previous studies have demonstrated that atri
al fibrillation (AF) is associated with an activation of the atrial angiote
nsin system.(8-10) However, the impact of AF on aldosterone levels has not
been studied. Increased systemic aldosterone levels could contribute to str
uctural changes of the myocardium and to fluid retention during AF. Thus, t
he purpose of this prospective study was to determine whether restoration o
f sinus rhythm decreases aldosterone serum levels in patients with persiste
nt AF.