Example 3
A cohort of patients post cardioversion are administered an effective amount of the imaging agent of the invention, images of each patient's left atrium are obtained and the uptake of the imaging agent is quantified. A cut point for imaging agent uptake is then established such that the cut point separates the cohort into 2 populations; those above the cut point have recurrent AF while those below the cut point do not.
Based on the cut point levels determined above, future patients are then tested for MMP levels using the methods of the invention and those demonstrating above cut point levels are treated using one or more of the therapies described herein and known in the art for AF, including but not limited to pharmacological rate control therapy, pharmacological rhythm control therapy, ablation, and/or implantable pacer.
