During the last few years, a significant number of studies have attempted to clarify
the underlying mechanisms that lead to the presentation of atrial fibrillation (AF). Inflammation
is a key component of the pathophysiological processes that lead to the development
of AF; the amplification of inflammatory pathways triggers AF, and, in tandem, AF
increases the inflammatory state. Indeed, the plasma levels of several inflammatory biomarkers
are elevated in patients with AF. In addition, the levels of specific inflammatory
biomarkers may provide information regarding to the AF duration. Several small studies
have assessed the role of anti-inflammatory treatment in atrial fibrillation but the results
have been contradictory. Large-scale studies are needed to evaluate the role of inflammation
in AF and whether anti-inflammatory medications should be routinely administered to
patients with AF.
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