Preexcitation syndromes: diagnostic consideration in the ED

Am J Emerg Med. 2009 Sep;27(7):878-88. doi: 10.1016/j.ajem.2008.06.013.

Abstract

Preexcitation syndromes are a common cause of paroxysmal tachycardias presenting to the ED. Emergency physicians should be familiar with the common electrocardiographic manifestations of preexcitation, particularly the Wolff-Parkinson-White abnormality, as these conditions require specific therapeutic management. This article reviews the pathophysiology of preexcitation, along with the electrocardiographic findings of Wolff-Parkinson-White and its associated tachyarrhythmias.

MeSH terms

  • Comorbidity
  • Electrocardiography*
  • Emergency Service, Hospital
  • Heart Conduction System / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Pre-Excitation Syndromes / diagnosis*
  • Pre-Excitation Syndromes / physiopathology
  • Tachycardia, Atrioventricular Nodal Reentry / diagnosis
  • Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome / diagnosis
  • Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome / epidemiology
  • Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome / physiopathology