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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
Alphabet titles spilled on table with some lined up to spell 'RARE DISEASE'
Blog
27 February 2026

Seeing the rare: why surveillance matters

Each year on the last day of February, Rare Disease Day shines a light on conditions that affect millions worldwide; conditions that most doctors may never encounter. For many families, rarity can mean long diagnostic journeys and uncertainty.
Steve Turner RCPCH Conference 2024
President's update
10 February 2026

Research, advocacy and learning - President’s update

This update explores how you can get started in research and the growing support available through RCPCH networks and partnerships. Alongside research opportunities, President Professor Steve Turner shares highlights from our latest learning resources, sustainability work and advocacy activity acros...