Wolff–Parkinson–White triad

A condition characterized by a specific set of symptoms related to cardiac function

Wolff–Parkinson–White triad
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Palpitations, syncope, tachycardia
Complications	Sudden cardiac death
Onset
Duration
Types	N/A
Causes	Accessory pathway
Risks
Diagnosis	Electrocardiogram
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Catheter ablation, medications
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency
Deaths	N/A

Wolff–Parkinson–White triad is a clinical syndrome associated with the presence of an abnormal extra electrical pathway in the heart. This condition can lead to episodes of rapid heart rate (tachycardia).

Pathophysiology

The Wolff–Parkinson–White (WPW) triad is characterized by three main features:

1. Short PR interval: This is due to the presence of an accessory pathway that allows electrical impulses to bypass the normal route through the atrioventricular node, leading to early activation of the ventricles.

2. Delta wave: This is a slurred upstroke in the QRS complex seen on an electrocardiogram (ECG), which is indicative of pre-excitation of the ventricles.

3. Wide QRS complex: The QRS complex is widened due to the abnormal conduction pathway.

These features are a result of the accessory pathway, known as the Bundle of Kent, which can conduct impulses from the atria to the ventricles, bypassing the normal conduction system.

Clinical Presentation

Patients with WPW triad may experience symptoms such as:

- Palpitations - Dizziness or syncope - Chest pain - Shortness of breath

In some cases, the condition can lead to more serious complications, including atrial fibrillation and sudden cardiac death.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of WPW triad is primarily made using an electrocardiogram (ECG), which will show the characteristic short PR interval, delta wave, and wide QRS complex. Additional tests, such as an electrophysiological study, may be conducted to assess the accessory pathway.

Treatment

Treatment options for WPW triad include:

- Medications: Antiarrhythmic drugs may be used to control heart rate and prevent episodes of tachycardia. - Catheter ablation: This is a procedure that involves destroying the accessory pathway using radiofrequency energy, which can cure the condition in most cases. - Lifestyle modifications: Patients may be advised to avoid triggers that can precipitate tachycardia episodes.

Prognosis

With appropriate treatment, the prognosis for individuals with WPW triad is generally good. Catheter ablation has a high success rate and can effectively eliminate the risk of future arrhythmias.

Also see

- Wolff–Parkinson–White syndrome - Atrial fibrillation - Supraventricular tachycardia - Electrocardiogram

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