Additional electrical pathway in the heart

Description

Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome or very rapid heartbeat (arrhythmia) caused by disturbed electrical pathway in the heart. In normal circumstances, an electrical impulse travels from the atria to the ventricle through AV node. In people with WPW syndrome, impulse bypasses AV node passing through the disrupted pathway. This bypass causes premature contraction of the ventricle and irregular heartbeat. The heartbeat is in some moments that rapid that can be life-threatening.

Symptoms

Palpitations (feeling of heart pounding), chest pain, anxiety, dizziness, vertigo, shortness of breath.

Overview

Anamnesis is being taken and physical examination is being done. EKG may also be done to confirm the diagnosis.

Tests

Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG).

Additional analyses

Electrophysiological testing, holter monitor of EKG.

Specialists

Cardiology

Therapy

Therapy is directed at control of heartbeat and removal of disrupted course in the heart to prevent cardiac arrhythmia. Medicines and/or cardioversions (administration of electricity of different force into the rib cage) are used. Electrophysiological testing and catheter ablation are methods which are recommended for removal of disrupted path. Surgical intervention is rarely necessary.