New-onset atrial fibrillation among COVID-19 patients: A narrative review

Abstract

Over the last three years, research has focused on examining cardiac issues arising from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection, including the emergence of new-onset atrial fibrillation (NOAF). Still, no clinical study was conducted on the persistence of this arrhythmia after COVID-19 recovery. Our objective was to compose a narrative review that investigates COVID-19-associated NOAF, emphasizing the evolving pathophysiological mechanisms akin to those suggested for sustaining AF. Given the distinct strategies involved in the persistence of atrial AF and the crucial burden of persistent AF, we aim to underscore the importance of extended follow-up for COVID-19-associated NOAF. A comprehensive search was conducted for articles published between December 2019 and February 11, 2023, focusing on similarities in the pathophysiology of NOAF after COVID-19 and those persisting AF. Also, the latest data on incidence, morbidity-mortality, and management of NOAF in COVID-19 were investigated. Considerable overlaps between the mechanisms of emerging NOAF after COVID-19 infection and persistent AF were observed, mostly involving reactive oxygen pathways. With potential atrial remodeling associated with NOAF in COVID-19 patients, this group of patients might benefit from long-term follow-up and different management. Future cohort studies could help determine long-term outcomes of NOAF after COVID-19.