Pre-excitation syndrome is a cardiac condition characterized by abnormal electrical pathways in the heart that allow electrical impulses to bypass the normal conduction system. This results in premature activation of the ventricles, the lower chambers of the heart, leading to abnormal heart rhythms known as tachyarrhythmias.
In a normal heart, electrical impulses travel from the sinoatrial (SA) node, the heart's natural pacemaker, to the atrioventricular (AV) node, which acts as a gateway between the atria and the ventricles. However, in pre-excitation syndrome, an additional pathway called an accessory pathway is present. This accessory pathway, also known as the bundle of Kent, creates an abnormal shortcut for electrical impulses, allowing them to bypass the AV node and go directly to the ventricles. This results in premature ventricular activation during each heart cycle.
Patients with pre-excitation syndrome may experience rapid and irregular heartbeats, palpitations, dizziness, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, it can lead to life-threatening arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation or ventricular fibrillation.
Treatment of pre-excitation syndrome focuses on managing symptoms and reducing the risk of life-threatening arrhythmias. This can be achieved through medications to control heart rate and rhythm, as well as catheter-based procedures like radiofrequency ablation to destroy the accessory pathway. In some cases, surgical options may be considered.
It is important for individuals with pre-excitation syndrome to have regular check-ups with cardiologists to monitor their condition, manage symptoms, and reduce the risk of complications.
