Differential Diagnoses for Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) Syndrome
Single Most Likely Diagnosis
- Atrial Fibrillation with Anterograde Conduction Down an Accessory Pathway: This is the most likely diagnosis in patients presenting with WPW syndrome, as it is a common manifestation of the condition. The presence of an accessory electrical pathway in the heart can cause the heart to beat too quickly, leading to atrial fibrillation.
Other Likely Diagnoses
- Paroxysmal Supraventricular Tachycardia (PSVT): PSVT is another common presentation of WPW syndrome, where the accessory pathway can cause a rapid heart rate that starts in the upper chambers of the heart.
- Orthodromic Atrioventricular Reentrant Tachycardia (OAVRT): OAVRT is a type of supraventricular tachycardia that can occur in patients with WPW syndrome, where the accessory pathway is used for retrograde conduction.
- Atrial Flutter with Variable Block: Atrial flutter is a type of arrhythmia that can occur in patients with WPW syndrome, where the accessory pathway can cause variable block and a rapid heart rate.
Do Not Miss Diagnoses
- Ventricular Tachycardia: Although less common, ventricular tachycardia can occur in patients with WPW syndrome, particularly if there is anterograde conduction down the accessory pathway. Missing this diagnosis can be life-threatening.
- Cardiac Arrest: Patients with WPW syndrome are at risk of cardiac arrest, particularly if they have a history of syncope or near-syncope. Prompt recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent this potentially fatal outcome.
Rare Diagnoses
- Permanent Junctional Reentrant Tachycardia (PJRT): PJRT is a rare type of supraventricular tachycardia that can occur in patients with WPW syndrome, where the accessory pathway is used for retrograde conduction.
- Mahaim Fiber Tachycardia: Mahaim fiber tachycardia is a rare type of arrhythmia that can occur in patients with WPW syndrome, where there is an accessory pathway that connects the atria to the ventricles.
- Fasciculoventricular Pathway: A fasciculoventricular pathway is a rare type of accessory pathway that can cause WPW syndrome, where there is a connection between the fascicles of the left ventricle and the ventricular muscle.