How Can Galectin-3 as a Biomarker of Fibrosis Improve Atrial Fibrillation Diagnosis and Prognosis?

Galectin-3 (Gal-3) is a biomarker of fibrosis that has been associated with atrial remodeling. Acknowledging the presence of a biomarker in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) can allow for a better clinical treatment. The aim of this study was to assess the association of Gal-3 with atrial fibrosis in patients with AF. This is a systematic review study. From the total number of studies analyzed, 12 demonstrated a relation between atrial fibrosis and Gal-3 in patients with AF and presented statistically significant association values. We conclude that Gal-3 is associated with atrial fibrosis in patients with AF in all types, as well as after the arrhythmia treatment by ablation.