Specialties & Conditions Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease that causes the body to make thick, sticky mucus. This is because of the faulty movement of sodium and chloride (the ingredients of salt) in the cells of certain organs, such as the lungs and pancreas.
What Are the Symptoms of Cystic Fibrosis?
Signs and symptoms of CF include:
- Salty-tasting skin
- Coughing, wheezing, and recurrent lung infections
- Good appetite but poor weight gain
- Bulky bowel movements
In the lungs, the mucus leads to chronic infections and increasing loss of lung function. In the pancreas, the thick mucus keeps enzymes from reaching the gut to digest food. The disease also affects the ability of most men with CF to have children.
What Is the Long-term Outlook for Cystic Fibrosis?
There are about 30,000 children and adults with CF in the United States. Because of improved medical treatments, the median life expectancy for a person with CF is in the late 30s. Children diagnosed with CF today may live much longer. More than one-third of people with CF are adults of all ages. The outlook for people with CF is improving; however, there is no cure.
Related News
All Infants, Regardless of Race or Ethnicity, Can Have Cystic Fibrosis
A new report on cystic fibrosis from Lurie Children’s, in partnership with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, highlights the need to improve awareness and practice to ensure that all babies with CF are diagnosed as soon as possible.
Survey of U.S. Parents Highlights Need for More Awareness About Newborn Screening, Cystic Fibrosis and What to Do if Results are Abnormal
A national survey led by Lurie Children’s found that parents have insufficient knowledge of newborn screening in general and of cystic fibrosis (CF) in particular.
New study findings underscore the importance of timely newborn screenings in early care for cystic fibrosis
Late diagnosis in the era of universal newborn screening negatively effects short- and long-term growth and health outcomes in infants with cystic fibrosis.
Diagnosis of Cystic Fibrosis Often Missed or Delayed, Especially in Non-White Infants
Lurie Children’s Hospital Engages Parents and PCPs to Increase Early Detection of Cystic Fibrosis
