CYSTIC

FIBROSIS
 DEFINITION
• is a genetic disorder that causes the exocrine
glands to work incorrectly .
• there is a gene that is mutated that prevents
the exocrine gland from working properly. It is
called the CFTR gene!
• CFTR gene is a protein that controls
the channels of sodium and chloride. Hence
the sodium and water transport in and out of
the cell, and these channels are within the
membrane of the cells that makes our sweat,
mucous, tears, and digestive enzymes.
 The body produces thick and sticky mucus that can clog the lungs and obstruct the pancreas.

This can lead to major complications that affect the respiratory, digestive (pancreas, liver, intestines),
integumentary, and reproductive systems along with the sinuses
 Symptoms

• salty-tasting skin
• persistent coughing • CF’s obstruction of the lungs increases the risk
of lung infections such as bronchitis and
• shortness of breath pneumonia, as it creates optimal conditions for
• wheezing the growth of pathogens.

• poor weight gain in spite of excessive appetite
• greasy, bulky stools
• nasal polyps, or small, fleshy growths found in
the nose
• Obstruction in the pancreas can lead to
malnutrition and poor growth. It has also been
associated with an increased risk of diabetes
and osteoporosis.
 Treatment

There is currently no cure for CF. Treatment can

manage the symptoms of the disease.

• Airway clearance