Introduction. -

Wolf-Parkinson-White syndrome is defined as the presence of delta waves, shortened PR intervals, prolonged QRS complexes, and supraventricular arrhythmias on the electrocardiogram.

Objectives. -

To present the clinical and electrocardiographic data of 45 patients with Wolf-Parkinson- White syndrome, including its course and treatment.

Methods. -

Patients were seen in public hospitals and a private practice. Variables: age, sex, symptoms, associated heart disease. Electrocardiograms showed: Intermittent heart rhythms, arrhythmias, and location of accessory pathways. Holter monitoring and ablation were performed in some patients.

Results. -

64% were men. Mean age was 36, range 1-79 years. 25 were symptomatic (55%), palpitations were present. 8 were intermittent heart disease. 2 were associated with heart disease (Ebstein’s syndrome and cardiac tumors). Left accessory pathways: 30 and right: 15. Arrhythmias: 20 (44%); supraventricular tachycardia: 17, and atrial fibrillation: 4. Holter monitoring: In 5: no changes in 4 and intermittent in 1. Ergometry: 2: no changes in 1 and abolition of delta wave in 1. Ablation of accessory bundles: 5.

Conclusions. -

Most were symptomatic. Arrhythmias occurred in less than half, with paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia being more frequent. Left accessory pathways were the most common. Holter monitoring and ergometry were performed in some patients. Accessory bundle ablation was performed in a few patients.

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