Primary ciliary dyskinesia is associated with all except –
**Core Concept**
Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a rare genetic disorder characterized by defective motility of cilia in the respiratory tract, resulting in recurrent respiratory infections and infertility due to impaired sperm motility. This condition is caused by mutations in genes encoding proteins essential for ciliary structure and function.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Primary ciliary dyskinesia is associated with situs inversus, a condition where the internal organs are reversed or mirrored from their normal positions. This association is due to the role of cilia in left-right axis determination during embryonic development. Mutations in PCD genes can disrupt this process, leading to situs inversus. The presence of situs inversus is a key diagnostic feature of PCD.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** is not a known association with primary ciliary dyskinesia. In fact, PCD is not typically associated with increased risk of certain infections, as it primarily affects ciliary function in the respiratory tract.
* **Option B:** is a feature of cystic fibrosis, not primary ciliary dyskinesia. Cystic fibrosis is a distinct genetic disorder caused by mutations in the CFTR gene, leading to thickened mucus and respiratory complications.
* **Option C:** is not a known consequence of primary ciliary dyskinesia. While PCD can lead to respiratory complications and infertility, it is not typically associated with increased risk of cancer.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
When evaluating patients with recurrent respiratory infections, it's essential to consider primary ciliary dyskinesia as a potential diagnosis, especially in those with a family history of the condition or other associated features such as situs inversus.
**Correct Answer:** D