An atrial fibrillation episode that terminates spontaneously within seven days is best described as?

An atrial fibrillation episode that terminates spontaneously within seven days is best described as?

• A. Persistent AF
• B. Paroxysmal AF
• C. Long-standing AF
• D. Permanent AF

Answer: (B)

Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation describes episodes that come and go and stop on their own, typically lasting less than seven days. The defining feature is spontaneous termination within a short time frame. If AF lasts beyond seven days or needs intervention to stop (like cardioversion), it’s considered persistent. Long-standing persistent AF remains continuous for more than a year, and permanent AF is when rhythm control is no longer pursued. So an AF episode that ends spontaneously within seven days fits paroxysmal AF.

Paroxysmal atrial fibrillation describes episodes that come and go and stop on their own, typically lasting less than seven days. The defining feature is spontaneous termination within a short time frame. If AF lasts beyond seven days or needs intervention to stop (like cardioversion), it’s considered persistent. Long-standing persistent AF remains continuous for more than a year, and permanent AF is when rhythm control is no longer pursued. So an AF episode that ends spontaneously within seven days fits paroxysmal AF.