Does inflammation influence atrial fibrillation recurrence following catheter ablation?
Recent clinical and experimental data suggest the pivotal role of inflammation in the pathogenesis of atrial fibrillation (AF). Large epidemiological studies have linked an amplified baseline inflammatory state with the development of cardiovascular events, including future AF,1 whereas certain inflammatory cytokines have been used to predict AF recurrence following successful electrical or chemical cardioversion.2,3 The increased incidence of AF following cardiac surgery, which is known to induce a potent inflammatory response through ischaemia, cardiopulmonary bypass, and cardiotomy, has further implicated inflammation in the pathogenesis of AF.4 In addition, patients with documented AF have demonstrated features of chronic inflammation that is proportional to the type and chronicity of AF.5 Finally, medications with an established anti-inflammatory effect, such as statins and corticosteroids, have been successfully used for primary and secondary prevention of AF.6,7 Despite occasion
