What is Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD)?
A quick overview of how PCD affects the body, common symptoms, and why early care matters.
How cilia normally work
Cilia line the airways and help sweep mucus, germs and debris out of the lungs and upper airways.
What happens in PCD
In PCD, cilia may not move at all or may move in an ineffective pattern. This allows secretions to build up, increasing the risk of infections and inflammation.
• Commonly affected areas: lungs, nose, sinuses, and ears
• Some people may also experience fertility challenges
Organ positioning
Up to around half of people with PCD have dextrocardia (heart on the right) or situs inversus totalis (organs mirrored). When PCD occurs with these features it is often referred to as Kartagener’s syndrome.
Why treatment is important
• Untreated or poorly controlled infections can lead to bronchiectasis (permanent airway damage).
• Daily airway clearance (physiotherapy), targeted antibiotics, age-appropriate vaccines and exercise
are core pillars of care.
This fact sheet provides general information only and is not medical advice. Always follow guidance from your respiratory/ENT/physiotherapy team.
