British Paediatric Surveillance Unit

The BPSU is a world leading centre for rare paediatric disease surveillance. It enables doctors and researchers to investigate how many children in the UK and Republic of Ireland are affected by particular rare diseases, conditions or treatments each year.

Studies currently on the eReporting card ('orange card')

Congenital and hospitalised neonatal varicella
ROHHAD (Rapid-onset obesity)
This month's reporting instructions for these studies
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Apply to the BPSU

We welcome applications from clinicians and researchers who wish to carry out national surveillance on rare childhood diseases.
Apply to the BPSU
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Impact of BPSU

SInce 1985 we have facilitated research on over 100 rare conditions, and have immensely influenced decisions about these diseases and the impact on patients.
About our impact
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Get eReporting cards

If you are a consultant paediatrician or SAS doctor with your own case load working in the UK or Republic of Ireland, and do not already receive the BPSU eReporting cards, please complete our form.
Sign up
Search all BPSU current studies

Other BPSU content

Past studies
Surveillance of HIV infection and vertical HIV exposure
Patient and public involvement
Research using health records
BPSU privacy notice
Bulletins
Rare disease tea party - reports from past events
Partnership Board
Scientific Committee
BPSU Sir Peter Tizard research bursary
Annual reports
Other research activities at RCPCH

Research news from the College

More news
Steve Turner, out for a jog in a beautiful landscape
President's update
22 September 2025

Small changes, big impact - President's update

As clinician's it's vital we encourage young people to invest in a healthy lifestyle for their wider health. Do have a look at the resources we've developed. Steve also encourages members to sign up for an update on the upcoming Facing the Future standards and read about the work of the new Child H...
Steve Turner at microphone, with RCPCH slide behind
President's update
5 September 2025

It’s back to school – President’s update

Here in the UK and many parts of the world, children and young people are back at school, and the approaching autumn and winter seasons can mean things get busy for us paediatricians. The College has plenty of new resources to support your clinical and professional practice this year.