Definition of sinonasal and otological exacerbation in patients with primary ciliary dyskinesia: an expert consensus

Background

Recurrent infections of the nose, sinuses, and ears are common problems for people with primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD). While pulmonary exacerbations in PCD are defined, there is no definition for Ear-Nose-Throat (ENT) exacerbations, a potential outcome for research and clinical trials.

Methods

We set up an expert panel of 24 ENT specialists, respiratory physicians, other healthcare professionals, and patients to develop consensus definitions of sinonasal and otologic exacerbations in children and adults with PCD for research settings. We reviewed the literature and used a modified Delphi approach with four electronic surveys.

Results

Both definitions are based on a combination of major and minor criteria, requiring three major or two major and at least two minor criteria each. Major criteria for a sinonasal exacerbation are: 1) reported acute increase in nasal discharge or change in colour; 2) reported acute pain or sensitivity in the sinus regions; 3) mucopurulent discharge on examination. Minor criteria include: reported symptoms; examination signs; doctoŕs decision to treat; improvement after at least 14-days. Major criteria for the otologic exacerbation are: 1) reported acute ear pain or sensitivity, 2) reported acute ear discharge, 3) ear discharge on examination, 4) signs of otitis media in otoscopy. Minor criteria are: reported acute hearing problems; signs of acute complication; doctoŕs decision to treat.

Conclusion

These definitions might offer a useful outcome measure for PCD research in different settings. They should be validated in future studies and trials together with other potential outcomes, to assess their usability.