Atrial fibrillation laboratory findings
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
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).
Laboratory Findings
- Renal function and electrolytes are routinely determined.
- Thyroid function tests : Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is commonly suppressed in hyperthyroidism and of relevance if amiodarone is administered for treatment.
- Complete blood count
- Cardiac markers : 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.