Epicardial Fat and Atrial Fibrillation: A Review.

ABSTRACT

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a progressive disorder that increases with age. Obesity is an important risk factor for AF. Pericardial fat is an active adipose tissue in close proximity to the heart and has been shown to be a risk factor for structural as well as coronary artery disease independent of body mass index. Recent studies suggest a role of epicardial fat in atrial remodeling as well as AF burden. This review will summarize the recent evidence linking epicardial fat and AF.