Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome

Alternate Names : Pre-Excitation Syndrome

What are the treatments for the disease?

Medications can be used to stop an arrhythmia by interrupting or slowing the abnormal electrical activity in the heart. These medications, called anti-arrhythmics, include procainamide and lidocaine.

Another approach is to map the heart's electrical activity by means of an electrophysiologic study. A radio frequency can be delivered through the catheter to destroy the abnormal pathway. Once the pathway is destroyed, no electrical activity can be conducted. This eliminates the problem of potential fast or irregular heart rates.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Anti-arrhythmics may cause heart rate or blood pressure abnormalities as well as allergic reactions. A person may also develop other arrhythmias as a result of certain heart medications.

What happens after treatment for the disease?

After Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome is effectively treated, the person can carry out normal activities.

How is the disease monitored?

A person with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome will need frequent regular ECGs and visits to the healthcare provider. Repeat electrophysiologic studies are generally not necessary, unless the problem comes back after the initial treatment. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.