Association between red cell distribution width and thromboembolic events in patients with atrial fibrillation

摘要

Abstract Background We investigated whether an increase in the value of red cell distribution width (RDW) was associated with thromboembolic outcomes in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods We performed a retrospective analysis of 5082 consecutive patients with non-valvular AF. Thromboembolic events ( N =723, 14.2%) were recorded and analysed according to RDW value. Results The peak RDW value during follow-up was higher in patients with thromboembolic events than in those without thromboembolic events (15.1% vs. 14.2%, p p p =0.019) compared to that of those without thromboembolic events. Conclusion An increased RDW value during follow-up could be associated with thromboembolic events in patients with non-valvular AF. The suggested cut-off values for RDW used to predict an increased thromboembolic risk in were ≥13.9% in patients with AF in general, ≥15% in patients with co-existing AF and CHF. Highlights ? An association between RDW elevation and thromboembolic risk in AF patients is investigated. ? Two cut-off points for poor outcome is proposed (generally ≥13.9% and ≥15.5% in heart failure). ? Patient's clinical risk can be checked again when their RDW level increases during follow-up.