What is the primary abnormality seen with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome?

Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome is primarily characterized by the presence of an accessory pathway that creates an abnormal electrical connection between the atria and ventricles, known as the Bundle of Kent. This leads to a condition where electrical impulses can bypass the normal conduction system, resulting in episodes of tachyarrhythmias, such as atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia (AVRT).

The accessory pathway allows for a rapid conduction that can lead to reentrant circuits, causing the heart to beat too quickly. This is the core abnormality associated with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, and it is directly related to the arrhythmogenic potential of the disorder. Understanding this abnormality is crucial for diagnosis and management, as it differentiates this condition from other cardiac issues that might present similarly.