Diagnosis and management of primary ciliary dyskinesia

Primary ciliary dyskinesia is a rare inherited condition affecting the movement and structure of the cilia in various areas of the body, including sinuses, ears and airways. Since 2006, three centres for diagnosis and research in England have been raising awareness and funding for primary ciliary dyskinesia's diagnosis and treatment. Other areas in the UK have their own arrangements and can refer to one of the English centres. This article discusses the condition, introduces the centres and advises on where to get more information. The author concludes that paediatric nurses are in a unique position to learn about and increase awareness of the condition to help prevent unnecessary ear, nose and throat surgeries and permanent lung damage.