Study Question:

Do genetic factors predispose to lone atrial fibrillation (AF)?

Methods:

In this population-based study, Danish registry data were used to gather information on approximately 4 million residents born in Denmark in 1950 or later who had ≥1 relative.

Results:

A diagnosis of lone AF was identified before the age of 60 years in 9,507 individuals. Individuals who had ≥1 first-degree relative with lone AF were 3.5 times more likely to develop lone AF than individuals without a family history of lone AF. The odds of developing lone AF were approximately sixfold higher in individuals who had ≥2 first-degree relatives with lone AF.

Conclusions:

The risk of developing lone AF before the age of 60 years is 3.5-fold higher when first-degree relatives have lone AF, and approximately sixfold higher when ≥2 first-degree relatives have lone AF.

Perspective:

The results are consistent with AF being caused by a gene mutation in at least some patients with idiopathic AF. However, another possible explanation for the findings is a behavioral or environmental factor that predisposes to AF and that could have familial clustering, such as obesity, excessive alcohol intake, or intense exercise.

Author(s):

Fred Morady, M.D., F.A.C.C. (Disclosure)

Topic(s):

Arrhythmias, Afib, Cardiac Rhythm Management