Etiology, Pathology, and Classification of Atrial Fibrillation.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a disorganized tachyarrhythmia with significant public health importance due to high morbidity, mortality, and health-care costs. Incidence rate of AF is on the rise and there are several modifiable and nonmodifiable risk factors that are responsible. Exact mechanisms and pathogenesis of AF are still poorly understood, yet they still have great implications in management. The aim of this article is to summarize the epidemiology, major risk factors, and their role in the pathogenesis of AF. Finally, we have reviewed the classification of AF as per professional society guidelines. © Thieme Medical Publishers.