Arrhythmias & electrophysiologyCohort study
Genetic evaluation of early-onset atrial fibrillation: impact on patient management
- Cohort study
- single-centre precision medicine clinic
Authors' conclusion
Genetic testing was positive in 20% of patients with early-onset AF referred to a dedicated AF precision medicine clinic. Genetic testing results may change clinical management in genotype-positive patients.
Study context
- Population
- Patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation (AF) before age 60 referred to a dedicated AF precision medicine clinic242 (92%) genetically tested
- Participants
- 264 patients
- Outcome
- Yield of genetic evaluation (pathogenic or likely pathogenic variant) and its therapeutic impact
Main finding
As reported in the abstract
Pathogenic or likely pathogenic variant on genetic testing
Positive genetic testing (pathogenic or likely pathogenic variant)
48 (20%)
Genetic testing changed clinical management in genotype-positive patients
52%
New ICD placements
7
Initiation of disease-modifying therapy
16
Observational data: associations, not effects.
Further findings
Predictors of positive genetic testing
- History of cardiomyopathy, infranodal conduction disease, elevated T1 or late gadolinium enhancement on CMR
- all P < .05
Predictors of negative genetic testing
- OSA and a normal 12-lead ECG
- both P < .04
Original publication
Genetic evaluation of early-onset atrial fibrillation: impact on patient management. Eur Heart J. Published 30 October 2025. doi:10.1093/eurheartj/ehaf829
Summarised from the published abstract; every number is checked against it