Which one of the following is NOT a feature of Kaagener&;s syndrome –
**Core Concept**
Kartagener's syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the combination of primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), chronic sinusitis, and situs inversus. It results from mutations in genes encoding for dynein arms, leading to defective ciliary function and impaired mucociliary clearance.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Kartagener's syndrome is a classic example of a primary ciliary dyskinesia disorder, which affects the motility of cilia in the respiratory tract, leading to recurrent respiratory infections and chronic sinusitis. The situs inversus, a characteristic feature of Kartagener's syndrome, is a result of the abnormal left-right axis determination during embryonic development. The defective ciliary function impairs the clearance of pathogens and debris from the respiratory tract, contributing to the development of chronic respiratory infections.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Bronchiectasis is a common feature of Kartagener's syndrome due to the impaired mucociliary clearance and recurrent respiratory infections.
**Option B:** Chronic sinusitis is a hallmark feature of Kartagener's syndrome, resulting from the impaired ciliary function and impaired mucociliary clearance.
**Option C:** Asthma-like symptoms can occur in Kartagener's syndrome due to the chronic respiratory infections and inflammation.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Kartagener's syndrome is often referred to as a "ciliary dyskinesia syndrome" due to its association with primary ciliary dyskinesia.
**Correct Answer:** D.