Kocyigit, DuyguGurses, Kadri MuratYalcin, Muhammed UlviCanpinar, HandeCanpolat, UgurEvranos, BanuYorgun, Hikmet2020-03-262020-03-2620170887-80131098-2825https://dx.doi.org/10.1002/jcla.22120https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12395/35471BackgroundLeft atrial appendage flow velocity (LAAFV) and presence of spontaneous echo contrast (SEC) have been reported to be predictors of thromboembolism in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients. Galectin-3 is a biomarker reflecting pro-inflammatory status, whose role in AF has recently drawn attention, particularly in persistent AF population. AimIn this study we aimed to investigate the association between serum galectin-3 levels and echocardiographic predictors of thromboembolism in persistent AF patients. MethodsWe included 65 persistent AF patients (55.5010.67years, 46.15% male). Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) was performed to assess LAAFV and presence of left atrial (LA)/LA appendage (LAA)-located SEC and thrombus prior to direct current cardioversion or catheter ablation for AF. ResultsMedian galectin-3 level was 0.63ng/mL. Serum galectin-3 levels were significantly correlated with LAAFV (r=-.440, P<.001). Serum galectin-3 levels were associated with presence of SEC (P<.001), and LA thrombus (P=.008). Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed that a serum galectin-3 greater or equal to the cut-off value of 0.69 predicted presence of SEC with a sensitivity and specificity of 91.00% and 79.00%, respectively (P<.001). ConclusionIn conclusion, in the setting of persistent AF, serum galectin-3 levels are associated with presence of SEC and LAAFV on TEE. Our findings suggest that serum galectin-3 level may have a place in thromboembolism risk stratification in persistent AF patients.en10.1002/jcla.22120info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccessatrial fibrillationgalectin-3left atrial appendage flow velocitytransesophageal echocardiographyArticle31628295609Q1WOS:000416049100009Q3