Anticoagulation in permanent atrial fibrillation after 75 years

Purpose. - More than 10% of the population over 75 years old is concerned by non valvular permanent atrial fibrillation which is responsible for at least 30% of ischemic strokes. The indication of an anticoagulant therapy is discussed in two different situations: primary or secondary prevention of stroke and acute phase of stroke. Current knowledge and key points. - Patients over 75 years old have a high risk of stroke (> 8% year). All the studies have demonstrated the benefit of a primary or secondary prevention by antivitamin K with an INR between 2 and 3 (reduction of the relative risk of about 68%). Conversely, the efficacy of aspirin has not been proven in this population of elderly patients. Once stroke has occurred, it is not recommended to initiate an anticoagulation (unfractioned or low molecular weight heparin) within the first hours. Prevention of venous thrombosis remains necessary. Future prospects and projects. - Currently, less than 30% of the patients older than 75 years are given anticoagulation, the risk of the treatment being probably overestimated. The risk benefit ratio should be evaluated more properly for a given patient. (C) 2002 Editions scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS. All rights reserved.