Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome is associated with what kind of wave on the EKG?

Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is characterized by the presence of an accessory pathway that connects the atria and the ventricles, which can result in a specific alteration in the electrocardiogram (EKG). The key feature associated with this condition is the delta wave.

The delta wave is a slurred upstroke that precedes the QRS complex on the EKG. It occurs due to early depolarization of the ventricles as a result of the accessory pathway conducting electrical impulses more quickly than through the normal conduction system. This leads to a shortened PR interval and a wider QRS complex.

Recognizing the delta wave is crucial as it helps differentiate WPW from other arrhythmic conditions and prompts appropriate management and treatment strategies. The presence of the delta wave is a hallmark for diagnosing WPW syndrome and illustrates the underlying pathophysiology involved in this disorder.