Accessory pathway

Accessory pathway is an additional electrical connection in the heart that is present from birth and can lead to tachycardia or fast heart rhythms.

Overview

An Accessory pathway is an abnormal electrical pathway between the atria and ventricles that bypasses the normal conduction pathway. It is present at birth and is the cause of certain types of tachycardia (fast heart rhythms).

Causes

The exact cause of an accessory pathway is unknown. It is thought to occur during the development of the heart before birth.

Symptoms

The symptoms of an accessory pathway can vary greatly. Some people may have no symptoms at all, while others may experience:

• Palpitations
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of an accessory pathway is usually made by an Electrocardiogram (ECG). This test can show the extra electrical pathway and the fast heart rhythms it causes.

Treatment

The treatment for an accessory pathway depends on the symptoms and the type of tachycardia it causes. Treatment options may include:

• Medication
• Catheter ablation
• Surgery

See also

• Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome
• Atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia

References

Accessory pathway Resources
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