3D interactive journey

Explore how cilia keep your body working

See what happens in Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia (PCD) and how it can affect breathing, mucus clearance, ears, sinuses, and organ placement.

Start Guided Tour Explore the Body
What is PCD?

A genetic condition that affects cilia.

Affects Many Areas

Lungs, ears, and sinuses.

You Are Not Alone

Stories and support.

Explore the Body

Click any area to learn how PCD can affect it.

Nose & Sinuses Mucus buildup and chronic congestion Ears Fluid buildup and ear infections Lungs Mucus clearance problems lead to infections Airways & Cilia Cilia do not move properly Body Development Some people may have organ laterality differences Brain CSF Ventricular cilia help move fluid
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Guided Tour

Follow the story step-by-step
01 Meet the Cilia 02 Normal Function 03 What Happens in PCD 04 Why Symptoms Happen 05 Daily Care & Treatment

Cilia Lab

See the difference. Understand the impact.

Normal Cilia

Cilia beat in a coordinated wave, moving mucus effectively.

PCD Cilia

Cilia beat weakly, in a disorganized way, or not at all.

In PCD, mucus and germs can stay in the airways longer, which can lead to infections and inflammation.

Symptom Map

Click a symptom to learn more.
Chronic Wet CoughMucus builds up and is harder to clear. Nasal CongestionSwelling and mucus can cause stuffiness. Ear InfectionsFluid buildup can lead to frequent infections.
Sinus InfectionsMucus can block sinus drainage. Newborn Breathing DistressSome babies have early breathing problems. Repeated Chest InfectionsMucus and germs can lead to pneumonia or bronchitis.
View All Symptoms

Treatment & Care

Daily care can make a big difference.
Airway ClearanceHelps move mucus out of the lungs. ExercisePhysical activity helps keep lungs clear. MedicationsUsed when prescribed by the doctor. ENT CareRegular checkups help manage sinus and ear issues. Respiratory CulturesMonitor bacteria in the lungs. Follow-upCare with specialists is important.
Learn More About Treatments

What is PCD?

Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia is a rare genetic condition that affects the cilia, tiny hair-like structures that line parts of the body. These cilia help move mucus, air, and fluids.

  • Genetic conditionPassed down in families.
  • Affects ciliaCilia do not move properly.
  • Many body systemsLungs, sinuses, ears, and reproductive organs.
  • Lifelong conditionManagement helps improve quality of life.
How Cilia Work