DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Cardiac Disease

Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome (WPW)

MODERATE

A congenital heart condition characterized by an accessory atrioventricular pathway (bundle of Kent) allowing pre-excitation. Associated with paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia and risk of sudden cardiac death from atrial fibrillation with rapid ventricular response.

Global Affected

3.0M

Countries

19

Symptoms

Palpitations
Tachycardia (PSVT)
Dizziness
Syncope
Chest discomfort
Dyspnea
Sudden cardiac death (rare)
Anxiety

Treatment Options

Catheter ablation (curative)
Antiarrhythmic drugs
Vagal maneuvers
Electrical cardioversion
Flecainide/propafenone
Amiodarone
Avoidance of AV nodal blockers (AF)

Risk Factors

1Ebstein anomaly
2HCM
3Other congenital heart disease
4Familial WPW (rare)
5Male gender

Diagnostic Methods

  • 112-lead ECG (delta wave, short PR)
  • 2Electrophysiology study
  • 3Exercise testing
  • 4Ambulatory monitoring
  • 5Echocardiogram

Prognosis

Excellent; catheter ablation has >95% success rate. Risk of sudden death 0.1-0.5% per year. Ablation eliminates risk.

Prevention

  • Catheter ablation
  • Avoidance of triggers
  • Regular monitoring
  • Prompt treatment of arrhythmias

Research Status

Catheter ablation (curative) and Antiarrhythmic drugs are primary treatments. Research focuses on improved therapies and outcomes.

Affected Countries

United StatesUnited KingdomCanadaAustraliaGermanyFranceItalySpainJapanBrazilMexicoNigeriaSouth AfricaIndiaChinaRussiaSouth KoreaSingaporeTaiwan

Sources

  • https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/arrhythmia
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470443
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.