
Objective: To identify ECG changes in sinus rhythm that may be used to predict subsequent development of new AF. Method: We identified prospective and retrospective cohort or case control studies evaluating ECG patterns from a 12-lead ECG in sinus rhythm taken in hospital or community predicting subsequent development of new AF. For each identified ECG predictor, we then identify absolute event rates and pooled risk ratios (RR) using an aggregate level random effects meta-analysis. Results: We identified 609,496 patients from 22 studies. ECG patterns included P wave terminal force V1 (PTFV1), interatrial block (IAB) and advanced interatrial block (aIAB), abnormal P wave axis (aPWA), PR prolongation and atrial premature complexes (APCs). Pooled risk ratios reached significance for each of these; PTFV1 RR 1.48 (95% CI 1.04–2.10), IAB 2.54 (95% CI 1.64–3.93), aIAB 4.05 (95% CI 2.64–6.22), aPWA 1.89 (95% CI 1.25–2.85), PR prolongation 2.22 (95% CI 1.27–3.87) and APCs 3.71 (95% CI 2.23–6.16). Diabetes reduced the predictive value of PR prolongation. Conclusion: APC and aIAB were most predictive of AF, while IAB, PR prolongation, PTFV1 and aPWA were also significantly associated with development of AF. These support their use in a screening tool to identify at risk cohorts who may benefit from further investigation, or following stroke, with empirical anticoagulation.
ESUS, atrial cardiopathy, Brain Ischemia, Stroke, Electrocardiography, prevention, Humans, atrial fibrillation, Interatrial Block, Prospective Studies, Atrial Premature Complexes, Retrospective Studies, Ischemic Stroke
ESUS, atrial cardiopathy, Brain Ischemia, Stroke, Electrocardiography, prevention, Humans, atrial fibrillation, Interatrial Block, Prospective Studies, Atrial Premature Complexes, Retrospective Studies, Ischemic Stroke
| selected citations These citations are derived from selected sources. This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically). | 5 | |
| popularity This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network. | Top 10% | |
| influence This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically). | Average | |
| impulse This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network. | Top 10% |
