What is a defining feature of the pathophysiology of WPW syndrome?

A defining feature of Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is the presence of an accessory pathway for electrical impulses. This characteristic allows for a pre-excitation of the ventricles, which can lead to episodes of arrhythmia. Specifically, in WPW, there is an abnormal conduction pathway, known as the Bundle of Kent, that bypasses the normal route through the atrioventricular (AV) node. This accessory pathway can conduct electrical impulses from the atria to the ventricles faster than the normal conduction system, creating a circuit that can lead to rapid heart rates or tachycardia.

Understanding this feature is crucial for recognizing WPW syndrome and its associated risks. The accessory pathway distinguishes WPW from other conditions that may present with similar symptoms, as it underlies the unique electrical activity seen in patients with this syndrome. Therefore, the presence of this accessory conduction pathway is key in both the diagnosis and management of WPW syndrome.