The delta wave on EKG is characteristic of which condition?

The delta wave on an EKG is characterized by a slurred upstroke in the QRS complex and is most commonly associated with Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome. This condition is a type of pre-excitation syndrome where there is an accessory pathway that allows electrical impulses to bypass the normal conduction system of the heart. As a result, the delta wave appears on the EKG due to this altered conduction, leading to a shortened PR interval and a broad QRS complex.

In contrast, aortic stenosis would typically show left ventricular hypertrophy on the EKG and possibly other signs of left heart strain, but it is not associated with delta waves. Acute myocardial infarction might show ST elevations or depressions, T wave inversions, or Q waves, but again does not involve the presence of delta waves. Cardiac tamponade usually manifests with findings such as electrical alternans or low-voltage QRS complexes, but does not include delta waves in its presentation.

Understanding the specific EKG findings associated with different cardiac conditions is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management.