CLINICO-ETIOLOGICAL PROFILE OF ATRIAL FIBRILLATION IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL AND ITS CORRELATION TO ATRIAL SIZE

Abstract

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a major global health concern with diverse etiologies and varying presentations. It is associated with significant morbidity, and its severity can be influenced by structural cardiac changes, notably left atrial (LA) enlargement. Objective: To study the clinical and etiological spectrum of atrial fibrillation and its correlation with left atrial size in a tertiary care setting. Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study included 118 patients with electrocardiographically confirmed AF. All patients underwent detailed clinical evaluation, electrocardiography, and echocardiography focusing on LA size. Etiological factors and associated complications were documented and analyzed. Results:  Mean age: 68.53 years  Male: 60.2%  Symptoms: Dyspnea (39.0%), palpitations (34.7%)  Etiologies: Rheumatic heart disease (RHD) 50.8%, hypertension 45.8%, coronary artery disease (CAD) 23.7%  Mean LA size: 45.93 mm; LA enlargement in 79.7%  Significant correlations: LA size with RHD (p = 0.042), oxygen saturation (p < 0.001), and heart failure (p = 0.002)  Common complications: Heart failure (27.1%), stroke (14.4%) Conclusion: RHD remains a predominant cause of AF in this population. LA size is a strong prognostic marker with significant implications for clinical outcomes. Echocardiographic evaluation is essential for risk stratification and management of AF.