Signs of Wolff Parkinson White syndrome (WPW)

Description

A heart rhythm problem (arrhythmia) caused by an abnormal electrical pathway in the heart. Normally the electrical impulse from the atrium to the ventricle travels through the atrioventricular (AV) node. In people with WPW the impulse bypasses the AV node by traveling through the abnormal pathway. This bypassing of the AV node causes an early contraction of the ventricle (preexcitation) and irregular heart rhythms. At times the rates can be very fast and life threatening.

Symptoms

Palpitations (a sensation of feeling your heart beat) chest pain, chest tightness, dizziness, light-headedness, fainting, shortness of breath.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. An EKG is used to diagnose the condition.

Standard Workup

Treatment

Therapy is directed at controlling the rhythm and destroying the abnormal pathway in the heart to prevent the heart arrhythmias. Medications and/or cardioversion (electrical stimulation of the heart) are used to control the heart rate. An electrophysiology study and catheter ablation is the preferred method to destroy the abnormal heart pathway. Rarely surgery is performed.