Wolff Periodic Disease, also known as Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome or WPW syndrome, is a rare heart condition characterized by the presence of an abnormal electrical pathway in the heart. This condition is named after Drs. Louis Wolff, Sir John Parkinson, and Paul Dudley White, who first described it.
In individuals with Wolff Periodic Disease, an additional electrical pathway, known as an accessory pathway, connects the atria (upper chambers) and ventricles (lower chambers) of the heart. This extra pathway allows electrical signals to bypass the normal route through the atrioventricular node, resulting in the rapid conduction of impulses from the atria to the ventricles.
The primary symptom of Wolff Periodic Disease is palpitations, which are described as irregular, rapid, or pounding heartbeats. Other common symptoms may include dizziness, shortness of breath, chest pain, and fainting. While some individuals may not experience any symptoms, others may be at risk of life-threatening complications such as atrial fibrillation or sudden cardiac arrest.
Diagnosis of Wolff Periodic Disease is typically conducted through electrocardiogram (ECG) testing to identify the characteristic pattern known as a delta wave. Further testing, such as stress tests or echocardiograms, may be recommended to assess the severity of the condition and rule out any underlying heart conditions.
Treatment for Wolff Periodic Disease aims to manage the symptoms and prevent complications. This often involves the use of medications to regulate heart rhythm or invasive procedures like catheter ablation, which selectively destroys the accessory pathway. In some cases, a pacemaker may be implanted to control heart rate and rhythm.
Regular medical follow-up is essential for individuals with Wolff Periodic Disease to monitor their condition and ensure appropriate management to minimize
