What are the two most common dysrhythmias associated with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome?

Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is characterized by the presence of an accessory conduction pathway, known as the bundle of Kent, which connects the atria and ventricles and can lead to rapid heart rhythms. The two most prevalent dysrhythmias associated with WPW are atrial fibrillation and supraventricular tachycardia (SVT).

Atrial fibrillation in the context of WPW can occur because the accessory pathway can facilitate rapid conduction, leading to a dangerous situation where the heart may beat at excessively high rates. In addition, SVT is often triggered in WPW due to the presence of the accessory pathway, allowing reentrant circuits to develop, resulting in rapid heart rates that can necessitate immediate intervention.

Understanding this relationship helps in the management of patients with WPW, as both atrial fibrillation and SVT can present with symptoms like palpitations, dizziness, or even syncope. Immediate recognition of these dysrhythmias is crucial for timely treatment and prevention of potential complications such as ventricular fibrillation.