Kartagener’s syndrome in an adolescent male: A case report and review of literature

Abstract

Kartagener’s syndrome (KS) is a rare autosomal recessive genetic condition causing disruption to ciliary movement, leading to the triad of sinusitis, situs inversus, and bronchiectasis. Mutations in genes such as DNAI1 and DNAH5 increase susceptibility to recurrent sinopulmonary infections, infertility and errors with the left-right body orientation. A teenage boy with a decade-long history of sinusitis, chronic cough and ear infections showed bronchiectasis and situs inversus in clinical and imaging examinations. He had a neonatal intensive care unit stay for 1 month due to respiratory distress at birth, where dextrocardia was noted. Treatment with antibiotics, mucolytics, chest therapy and vaccination improved his symptoms. KS should be considered in newborns with dextrocardia and breathing problems. Genetic counselling and fertility issues should be addressed once KS is diagnosed.