Predictors of Atrial Fibrillation in Holter Monitoring after Stroke – A Ten Year Flashback

Introduction

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a major risk factor for thromboembolic events, increasing five times the risk of stroke; it is also associated with more severe events and a higher risk of stroke recurrence. ^, On the other hand, the diagnosis of AF as the cause of ischaemic stroke shifts the therapeutic approach with a major prognostic impact.^, Detection of previously unknown AF after stroke is crucial, and several studies have established the effectiveness of ECG monitoring for post-stroke AF detection. According to ESO Guidelines for managing ischaemic stroke and transient ischaemic attack (TIA), after the acute phase, a 24-hour Holter ECG monitoring should be performed. New ESC Guidelines recommend short-term ECG recording for at least the first 24 h and continuous ECG monitoring for at least 72 h whenever possible in cryptogenic stroke.

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