The Predictive Value of NT-proBNP for New-Onset Atrial Fibrillation in Patients with Arrhythmia

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a common arrhythmia associated with serious complications. This study aimed to assess the role of NT-proBNP in predicting new-onset AF in patients with non-AF arrhythmia. This was a prospective cohort study of 232 patients followed for a median of 12 months. Data on NT-proBNP, demographics, medical history, presenting symptoms, and paraclinical indices were collected. The results showed that syncope (59.9%) and dizziness (55.6%) were the most common presenting symptoms. Initial NT-proBNP levels were not statistically significant in predicting new-onset AF (HR = 0.9995; p = 0.717). Instead, left atrial (LA) size, a history of diabetes mellitus, and a history of stroke were significant independent predictors. Specifically, a history of stroke increased the risk of AF more than 10-fold, diabetes increased it nearly 6-fold, and each millimeter increase in LA size raised the risk by 27%. The study concluded that NT-proBNP is not an effective prognostic marker for new-onset AF in this population, but left atrial size, diabetes, and a history of stroke are crucial clinical factors to consider in screening and managing AF risk.