When Wheezing is Not Asthma: A Case of Kartagener’s Syndrome

Kartagener’s syndrome, a distinct form of primary ciliary dyskinesia, is characterized by the classic triad of chronic sinusitis, bronchiectasis, and situs inversus. We report the case of an 18-year-old male, followed since childhood for severe treatment-resistant asthma, admitted with acute respiratory distress. Investigations revealed bilateral infected bronchiectasis, complete situs inversus, and chronic sinusitis, confirming the diagnosis of Kartagener’s syndrome. Management included oxygen therapy, empirical antibiotic therapy, respiratory physiotherapy, and updated vaccinations, with a favorable outcome. This case illustrates that wheezing does not always correspond to asthma, highlighting the importance of an accurate etiological diagnosis and appropriate management to prevent long-term respiratory and cardiovascular complications.