The role of galectin-3 in patients with permanent and paroxysmal Atrial Fibrillation and echocardiographic parameters of left atrial fibrosis.

Background: Biochemical markers and imaging tests have been used with the aim of stratifying the risk and detecting atrial fibrosis. Speckle-tracking echocardiography (STE) is used for the detection of atrial fibrosis and Gal-3 provides an important prognostic value. The objective of the study was to assess the association between atrial fibrosis markers and serum levels, genetic polymorphisms and genic expression of galectin-3.

How Can Galectin-3 as a Biomarker of Fibrosis Improve Atrial Fibrillation Diagnosis and Prognosis?

Galectin-3 (Gal-3) is a biomarker of fibrosis that has been associated with atrial remodeling. Acknowledging the presence of a biomarker in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) can allow for a better clinical treatment. The aim of this study was to assess the association of Gal-3 with atrial fibrosis in patients with AF.