Enhanced Diagnostics for Early Detection of Atrial Fibrillation

Enhanced Diagnostics for Early Detection of Atrial Fibrillation - DETECT AF Trial

Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation can only be diagnosed during episodes when the arrhythmia is present.

The investigators hypothesize that the activation of the atrial myocardium resulting in the p-wave of the ecg should display abnormalities in diseased atria which are vulnerable for AF.

In the first part of this trial different diagnostic techniques to detect arrythmogenic substrates of atrial fibrillation will be tested. If suitable parameters can be identified, a follow up trial to identify patients at risk for AF will be conducted before a stroke happens.

Parameters tested are

1. Electrophysiological differences between patients with paroxysmal AF and no history of AF
2. "Vascular Stiffness" detected by an iPhone app

All patients will undergo a cardiogoniometrie and a pulse wave analysis with an iPhone. Each exam takes 5 minutes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in sinus rhythm at presentation

Exclusion Criteria:

• acute cerebral trauma
• antiarrhythmic medication