Diagnosis
Multiple Organ Involvement
Most patients with CF present with multisystem disease, involving multiple organs. Patients with CF may present with several or all of the conditions listed on this chart.3
| Respiratory System | Gastrointestinal (GI) System | Reproductive System |
|---|---|---|
| Chronic Cough Purulent sputum Sinusitis, nasal polyps Lung infections |
Meconium ileus Failure to thrive Pancreatic insufficiency Malabsorption Biliary cirrhosis Deficiency of fat-soluble vitamins |
Infertility |
The lungs are the most affected organs and contribute to significant morbidity and mortality. Lung disease contributes to 75% of hospitalizations, and 90% to 95% of all CF deaths are the result of chronic pulmonary infections.5,28
References:
3. Welsh M. Cystic Fibrosis. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Textbook of Medicine. 22nd ed. Philadelphia: WB Saunders; 2004. p. 1-22.
5. Mason P. Cystic fibrosis-the disease. Hospital Pharmacist 2005;12:201-7.
28. Smyth RL. Diagnosis and management of cystic fibrosis. Arch Dis Child Ed Pract 2005;90:1-6.