Cystic Fibrosis

Question 1

Psychological Impact (3)

Answer 1

Anxiety/ Depression

Panic Attacks

PTSD

Question 2

Structures Involved (4)

Answer 2

Lungs

Ion channels lining epithelial membranes

Intestines

Pancreas

Question 3

Risk Factors (3)

Answer 3

Genetic Predisposition

Infections can make symptoms worse

Pollution can aggravate condition

Question 4

Treatments (3)

Answer 4

Antibiotics to reduce infections

Dornase alfa- a drug to make mucus thinner

Combination of 3 drugs (Kaftrio)

Question 5

Investigation (3)

Answer 5

Chest X-Ray

Genetic Testing: saliva, blood, faulty gene is tested for

Sweat Test: salt concentration is high in many CF patients

Question 6

Symptoms/ Signs/ History (7)

Answer 6

1) Diarrhoea/Constipation
2) Jaundice
3) Bowel obstruction in infants
4) Persistent cough with phlegm
5) Frequent lung infections
6) Wheezing, shortness of breath
7) Poor growth/ weight in-spite of appetite

Question 7

Pathology

Answer 7

Cause by a mutation in the CFTR gene

This gene regulates movement of Cl- and Na+ ions across epithelial cell membranes

When defective it leads to mucus build up as well as other systemic obstructions and abnormalities