In Wolf Parkinson white syndrome all are true except
WPW is characterized by an accessory pathway (bundle of Kent) that connects the atria and ventricles, bypassing the AV node. This leads to preexcitation, which is seen on ECG as a short PR interval, delta wave, and prolonged QRS complex. The syndrome is associated with episodes of supraventricular tachyccardia, like AV reentrant tachycardia (AVRT).
Now, the question asks which statement is NOT true. The options are not provided, but common incorrect statements might include things like "AV nodal blocking agents are safe," which is actually dangerous because they can increase conduction through the accessory pathway. Another common mistake is using calcium channel blockers, which are contraindicated in WPW with preexcitation. Also, the presence of a delta wave is a key ECG finding, so any option denying that would be incorrect.
The correct answer is likely an option that states something like "Calcium channel blockers are safe for acute management," which is wrong because they can cause rapid conduction through the accessory pathway, leading to ventricular fibrillation. So, the explanation should highlight the mechanism of these drugs and why they're contraindicated here.
**Core Concept**
Wolf-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is characterized by an accessory pathway (bundle of Kent) that bypasses the AV node, leading to preexcitation of the ventricles. Key ECG features include a short PR interval (<120 ms), delta wave (slurred upstroke of QRS), and widened QRS complex. Clinical manifestations often involve episodes of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), particularly AV reentrant tachycardia (AVRT).
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The incorrect statement in WPW syndrome is **"Calcium channel blockers are safe for acute management of SVT"**. These agents (e.g., verapamil) slow AV nodal conduction but accelerate conduction through the accessory pathway, increasing the risk of ventricular fibrillation. AV nodal blocking agents (e.g., adenosine) are preferred to block the AV node and prevent reentry, but calcium channel blockers are contraindicated in WPW with preexcitation.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** *"Delta wave is a hallmark of WPW"* β Correct. The delta wave represents early ventricular depolarization via the accessory pathway.
**Option B:** *"Short PR interval (<120 ms) is typical"* β Correct. The AV node bypass shortens the PR interval.
**Option C:** *"Digoxin is contraindicated in acute SVT with WPW"* β Correct. Digoxin enhances accessory pathway conduction, risking ventricular fibrillation.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Never use calcium channel blockers or digoxin in WPW with preexcitation during acute SVT. Remember **"AV nodal blockers are okay, but calcium channel blockers are not!"** Use adenosine or synchronized DC cardioversion for acute management.
**Correct Answer: C