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Cystic fibrosis    See images

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Definition:

An inherited disease that affects the respiratory and digestive systems.

Causes and Risks

Cystic fibrosis affects the mucus and sweat glands of the body and is caused by a defective gene. Thick mucus is formed in the breathing passages in the lungs and this predisposes the person to chronic lung infections. Many pancreatic enzymes involved in the breakdown and absorption of fats in the intestine are absent, causing malabsorption (inadequate absorption of nutrients from the intestinal tract) and malnutrition. Most males with cystic fibrosis are infertile. About one in 2500 Caucasians is affected and 2-5% of Caucasians carry the cystic fibrosis gene.

It is the most common cause of chronic lung disease in children and young adults, and the most common fatal hereditary disorder affecting Caucasians in the US. It is most common among Caucasians of Northern or Central European descent; it is much less common in other ethnic groups. Risk factors include a family history of cystic fibrosis or unexplained infant death.

Ency. home > Disease > C > Cystic fibrosis

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