What is primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD)?
Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a rare, genetic disorder in which the airways of the lungs (bronchi) become infected and filled with pus due to abnormalities of the cilia (microscopic hairs that sweep secretions out of the respiratory tract).
While there is no cure for primary ciliary dyskinesia, there are treatments that can ease symptoms and prevent further damage.
If left untreated, the repeated infections caused by PCD can lead to lung damage. PCD can be treated by our respiratory medicine specialists at Royal Brompton Hospital and Wimpole Street Consulting Rooms and Diagnostic Centre.
Experts in PCD
Our specialist respiratory services include:
- short-notice appointments in as little as 24 hours
- fast and accurate diagnosis
- quick access to treatment
Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD) symptoms
Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) mainly affects the lungs, ears and sinuses.
Lung symptoms:
- breathing problems in newborns
- recurrent pneumonia
- chronic cough
- collapsed lung
Ear symptoms:
- repeated infections of the middle ear
- hearing loss
Sinuses:
- chronic sinus infections
- nasal congestion
- runny nose
Other symptoms include:
- infertility
- bronchiectasis
- situs inversus (a condition in which the internal organs such as the heart, spleen and liver are located in positions that are opposite to normal)
If you or your child are experiencing these symptoms, get in touch to book an appointment for a consultation with a specialist.
Diagnosing Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD)
There are two main tests used to diagnose primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD):
Genetic testing
A sample of blood will be taken and sent to a lab for genetic testing.
Electron microscopy
Samples of the cilia will be taken from inside the nose or the airways and studied under an electron microscope.
Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) treatment
Unfortunately there is no cure for primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), so the aim of the treatment is to alleviate symptoms and prevent further damage. Treatments include:
Chest physical therapy
A form of physical therapy used to loosen the mucus from the lungs (which can then be coughed up), via repeated pounding on the back and chest with the hands or one of a number of specialist devices.
Exercise
Regular aerobic exercise can increase the airflow through the lungs and help loosen the mucus to be coughed up.
Medication
A range of medications such as antibiotics, bronchodilators, or anti-inflammatory medicines can be used to treat lung infections and reduce associated symptoms.
Surgery
In cases of severe damage to the lung (from bronchiectasis), surgery can be performed to remove damaged parts of the lung (lung volume reduction surgery) or as a last resort, a lung transplant may also be considered.
If you would like to speak to one of our consultants about the treatment option that’s right for you, contact our team to book an appointment.
Locations
We offer treatment for PCD at the following locations
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