In this group, cardiac death is more prevalent than stroke and thus these patients must be referred to a cardiologist. Clinical Pearls Amaurosis fugax in elderly patients may be the initial sign of giant cell arteritis. These patients need an immediate Westgren ESR, and possible temporal artery biopsy, along with the requisite carotid studies. Most cases of TIA and AF show no visible evidence at examination. These diagnoses can be made by history.
Optimal management involves referral to the appropriate medical specialist.
The number one hematological cause of AF is sickle cell disease.