Methodological Implications and Repeatability of Nasal Nitric Oxide: Relevance for Challenge Studies

Nasal Nitric Oxide Measurement in Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia. A Technical Paper on Standardized Testing Protocols

Nasal nitric oxide concentrations are extremely low in primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), and measurement of this nasal gas is recommended as a PCD diagnostic test in cooperative patients aged 5 years and older. However, nasal nitric oxide measurements must be performed with chemiluminescence analyzers using a standardized protocol to ensure proper results, because nasal nitric oxide values can be influenced by various internal and external factors. Repeat nasal nitric oxide testing on separate visits is required to ensure that low diagnostic values are persistent and consistent with PCD. This technical paper presents the standard operating procedures for nasal nitric oxide measurement used by the PCD Foundation Clinical and Research Centers Network at various specialty centers across North America. Adherence to this document ensures reliable nasal nitric oxide testing and high diagnostic accuracy when employed in a population with appropriate clinical phenotypes for PCD.