Advances in the Detection and Monitoring of Atrial Fibrillation for Patients with Cryptogenic Ischemic Stroke.

Abstract

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a significant etiologic cause of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) that leads to disabling deficits as well as significant morbidity and mortality in this population. Approximately 25 % of AIS is considered to be cryptogenic with no etiology ascertained at the time of the index event. Recent advances from the EMBRACE and CRYSTAL-AF trial have improved detection and treatment of AF and subsequently lead to changes in guidelines. However, with improved detection rates, the duration and frequency cutoffs for treating AF are currently being investigated to ensure optimization of patient selection and subsequent treatment.