To explore biomarkers that predict new-onset atrial fibrillation (AF) and their potential to improve early diagnosis and risk stratification in high-risk patient populations, including those with comorbidities.
Key Findings:
Eighteen biomarkers were associated with increased risk of new-onset AF, notably NT-proBNP and sVCAM-1.
Nine biomarkers were linked to lower AF incidence, including ADAMTS13 (HR 0.78, 95% CI 0.70–0.88).
Meta-analysis showed NT-proBNP significantly associated with higher AF incidence (HR 1.37, 95% CI 1.19–1.59) and Lp(a) with a 3% increase in AF incidence per 20 mg/dL increment.
Interpretation:
Established biomarkers like NT-proBNP and emerging candidates such as Lp(a) and sVCAM-1 could enhance early diagnosis and preventive management of AF, potentially reducing the risk of stroke and other complications.
Limitations:
Exclusion of studies analyzing specific populations and those with prior or postoperative AF.
Need for large-scale prospective studies to validate and optimize the diagnostic utility of identified biomarkers.
Potential biases in the included studies may affect the generalizability of the findings.
Conclusion:
The study confirms the association of biomarkers with new-onset AF, suggesting their potential role in improving diagnosis and risk management.
by Darío Mandaglio-Collados, María Pilar Ramos-Bratos, José Miguel Rivera-Caravaca, Eva Soler-Espejo, Vanessa Roldán, Gregory Y H Lip, Raquel López-Gálvez, Francisco Marín
