Atrial fibrillation laboratory findings

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Laboratory Findings

Many cases of AF have no definite cause, it may be the result of various other problems (blood tests of thyroid function are required, especially for a first episode of AF, when the ventricular rate is difficult to control, or when AF recurs unexpectedly after cardioversion).

Renal function and electrolytes are routinely determined, as well as thyroid-stimulating hormone (commonly suppressed in hyperthyroidism and of relevance if amiodarone is administered for treatment) and a blood count.

In acute-onset AF associated with chest pain, cardiac troponins or other markers of damage to the heart muscle may be ordered. Coagulation studies (INR/aPTT) are usually performed, as anticoagulant medication may be commenced.