What is PCD?

Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (P.C.D.) is an inherited, relatively rare condition associated with an abnormality of cilia, which may affect the lungs, sinuses and ears. The mainstay of treatment is chest physiotherapy, enabling individuals to lead normal lives. Any problems resulting from P.C.D. vary from person to person. 
 
P.C.D, previously known as lmmotile Cilia syndrome, was first described in association with Kartagener's syndrome. The condition involves recurrent infections in the nose, ears, sinuses and lungs and if untreated can lead to a form of lung damage known as bronchiectasis. The clinical description of Kartagener's syndrome is bronchiectasis, sinusitis, dextrocardia (heart on the right) and situs inversus (internal organs being on the opposite side to normal). In the mid 1970's it was identified that the condition was associated with an abnormality of cilia.

Subsequently it has been realised that up to 50% of patients with P.C.D. do not have dextrocardia or situs inversus and therefore doctors may not be alerted to its presence.