What is the triad commonly associated with Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome?

Prepare for the Rosh Internal Medicine Boost End of Rotation (EOR) Exam with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question offers hints and explanations to help you excel. Get exam-ready now!

Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is characterized by a specific set of findings on an electrocardiogram (ECG), commonly known as the triad. The correct option highlights the presence of a short PR interval, a wide QRS complex, and the characteristic delta wave.

The short PR interval in WPW occurs because the accessory pathway allows for earlier depolarization of the ventricles compared to the normal conduction system. This leads to a more immediate activation of the ventricles after atrial depolarization, reducing the time between atrial and ventricular contraction.

The delta wave is a distinctive feature of WPW. It represents the initial phase of ventricular depolarization that is conducted through the accessory pathway, producing a slurred upstroke on the QRS complex. This feature contributes to the wide QRS complex observed in WPW, as the conduction through the accessory pathway takes longer than normal conduction through the His-Purkinje system.

In summary, the combination of a short PR interval, delta wave, and wide QRS complex defines the typical ECG findings associated with WPW syndrome, making the highlighted choice the correct one. This triad is crucial for identifying the condition and differentiating it from other forms

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