Advanced interatrial block predicts new-onset atrial fibrillation and ischemic stroke in patients with heart failure: The “Bayes' Syndrome-HF” study

Abstract

Advanced interatrial block (IAB) is characterized by a prolonged (≥120 ms) and bimodal P wave in the inferior leads. The association between advanced IAB and atrial fibrillation (AF) is known as “Bayes' Syndrome”, and there is scarce information about it in heart failure (HF). We examined the prevalence of IAB and whether advanced IAB could predict new-onset AF and/or stroke in HF patients.

Methods and results: The prospective observational “Bayes' Syndrome-HF” study included consecutive outpatients with chronic HF. The primary endpoints were new-onset AF, ischemic stroke, and the composite of both. A secondary endpoint included all-cause death alone or in combination with the primary endpoint. Comprehensive multivariable Cox regression analyses were performed. Among 1050 consecutive patients, 536 (51.0%) were in sinus rhythm, 464 with a measurable P wave are the focus of this study. Two-hundred and sixty patients (56.0%) had normal atrial conduction, 95 (20.5%) partial IAB, and 109 (23.5%) advanced IAB. During a mean follow-up of 4.5 ± 2.1 years, 235 patients experienced all-cause death, new-onset AF, or stroke. In multivariable comprehensive Cox regression analyses, advanced IAB was associated with new-onset AF (HR 2.71 [1.61–4.56], P < 0.001), ischemic stroke (HR 3.02 [1.07–8.53], P = 0.04), and the composite of both (HR 2.42 [1.41–4.15], P < 0.001).

Conclusions: In patients with HF advanced IAB predicts new-onset AF and ischemic stroke. Future studies must assess whether anticoagulant treatment in Bayes' Syndrome leads to better outcomes in HF.