Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome and Its Possible Treatments in Pediatrics: An Integrative Review

Abstract

Introduction: Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is a congenital cardiac condition of preexcitation due to the presence of one or more accessory pathways that connect the atrial myocardium to the ventricular myocardium, allowing reentry mechanisms that cause tachyarrhythmias. This condition is observed on electrocardiograms by a short PR interval, delta wave, and a widened QRS complex. Clinically, this pathology can lead to potentially life-threatening complications, requiring specialized management. Objective: To present a general overview of WPW syndrome, focusing on the treatment of pediatric patients. Methodology: This is a bibliographic review. Sources were obtained through the following online databases: Medical Analysis And Retrieval Online (Medline), PubMed, and Google Scholar. For the article search, the keywords indexed in the Health Sciences Descriptors (DECs) were used, in English: Wolff-Parkinson-White Syndrome, Preexcitation Syndrome, Children, Newborns, and Treatment, using the combination of descriptors through the boolean operator AND and OR; and in Portuguese: Síndrome de Wolff-Parkinson-White, Crianças, and Tratamento. Results and Discussion: Catheter ablation is widely considered the intervention of choice, with high success rates, especially in children over 5 years old. The use of pharmacological therapy, such as antiarrhythmics and β-blockers, is also recommended, particularly for children under 5 years old or in cases where ablation is not viable. Conclusion: In summary, an individualized approach is essential for assessing the management of WPW Syndrome in pediatric patients. Catheter ablation stands out as an effective intervention, as it offers high success rates.