Oral Anticoagulant Prescription in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation and a Low Risk of Thromboembolism: Insights From the NCDR PINNACLE Registry -

Oral Anticoagulant Prescription in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation and a Low Risk of Thromboembolism: Insights From the NCDR PINNACLE Registry
Information type: Other primary research
Source: JAMA Internal Medicine
Specialities: Cardiovascular system disorders
Summary
This US audit of 10,995 young and healthy patients with AF and no structural heart disease who were at low risk for thromboembolism (CHADS2/ CHA2DS2-VASc score of 0) found around 25% were prescribed an oral anticoagulant, contrary to guideline recommendations.
UKMi comment
The NICE clinical guideline on atrial fibrillation (CG180; June 2014) states that stroke prevention therapy should not be offered to people aged under 65 years with atrial fibrillation and no risk factors other than their sex (that is, very low risk of stroke equating to a CHA2DS2-VASc score of 0 for men or 1 for women).
Related links: NICE guideline