Atrial Fibrillation's Impact on Cerebral Health and Dementia Risk

The intricate interconnections between cardiac and cerebral health have become a focal point of contemporary research, particularly in the context of atrial fibrillation (AF), the most prevalent sustained cardiac arrhythmia. AF has been increasingly linked to cognitive impairment and the potential progression to dementia, including vascular dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Despite the growing body of evidence, the precise mechanisms driving this progression remain partially enigmatic. Current hypotheses suggest that thromboembolism, chronic cerebral hypoperfusion, inflammatory responses, and shared vascular risk factors such as hypertension and diabetes may play significant roles. Recent studies have highlighted the potential of brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to provide insights into the morphological and functional changes in the brain associated with AF, which may contribute to cognitive decline and dementia. However, a comprehensive understanding of these mechanisms and their implications for predicting or diagnosing cognitive decline remains elusive, necessitating further investigation.

This research topic aims to explore the cerebral structural and functional modifications observed in patients with atrial fibrillation and elucidate their role in predicting or diagnosing cognitive decline and dementia. The primary objectives include characterizing brain MRI changes in AF patients, understanding the impact of AF burden and types on these changes, and investigating age- or gender-dependent variations. Additionally, the research will delve into the underlying mechanisms of AF-related brain MRI changes and their contribution to cognitive decline and dementia.

To gather further insights into the cerebral changes associated with atrial fibrillation, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Characterizing the brain MRI changes in patients with AF
- Exploring the impact of AF burden and different AF types on brain MRI alterations
- Investigating age- or gender-dependent variations in brain MRI changes in AF patients
- The underlying mechanisms of AF on brain MRI changes
- Role of AF-related brain MRI changes on cognitive decline and dementia
- The interplay between AF, brain MRI changes, and cognitive decline

Keywords: atrial fibrillation, magnetic resonance imaging, brain morphological/functional changes, cognitive impairment, cerebrovascular disease/stroke

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