Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome
Pronunciation: WOLF PARK-in-son WHITE
A pre-excitation disorder caused by an accessory electrical pathway between the atria and ventricles.
Full Definition
Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is a congenital heart rhythm disorder characterized by the presence of an accessory atrioventricular pathway (bundle of Kent) that allows electrical conduction to bypass the normal AV node. This creates a characteristic delta wave and shortened PR interval on the ECG during sinus rhythm. Patients may experience supraventricular tachycardia episodes due to reentrant circuits involving the accessory pathway. The syndrome can be associated with sudden cardiac death, particularly when atrial fibrillation occurs and conducts rapidly through the accessory pathway to the ventricles. Treatment options include antiarrhythmic medications for symptom control or catheter ablation for definitive cure of the accessory pathway.
Usage
Usage note: Named after Louis Wolff, John Parkinson, and Paul Dudley White; commonly abbreviated as WPW.
In Context
- "The ECG showed classic delta waves consistent with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome." — Electrophysiology report
- "Catheter ablation was recommended for the patient's symptomatic WPW syndrome." — Treatment plan