Cystic Fibrosis Flashcards
What is cystic fibrosis (CF)?
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive multisystem disease, characterised by the build-up of mucus in the organs.
What is the epidemiology of cystic fibrosis?
CF is the most common inherited fatal disease and is included in newborn screening. It is mostly diagnosed before 2 years old, but mild CF can present and be diagnosed in adolescence and adulthood.
What is the prevalence of cystic fibrosis among different ethnic groups?
CF is most prevalent in Caucasian individuals, especially those with Australian, North-European, or North-American ancestry. The prevalence from most to least is: Caucasian, black, Asian newborns.
What is the pathophysiology of cystic fibrosis?
CF is caused by a mutation of the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene on the long arm of chromosome 7, which codes for the CFTR protein.
What is the function of the CFTR protein?
The CFTR protein is a chloride ion channel in the epithelial membrane that maintains hydration levels, preventing mucus from becoming dehydrated.
What is the most common mutation associated with cystic fibrosis?
The most common mutation is Delta F508/Phe508, which results in the absence of phenylamine amino acid at the 508 position.
What are the consequences of the CFTR mutation?
The mutation codes for an abnormal CFTR protein that causes dehydrated mucus with high viscosity, obstructing multi-system glands and ducts.
What are the respiratory manifestations of cystic fibrosis?
Respiratory manifestations include airway obstruction and impaired mucociliary transport, commonly presenting with chronic respiratory infections, which is a hallmark feature.
What are common symptoms of cystic fibrosis in older children?
Common symptoms include persistent cough with sputum, haemoptysis (minor due to airway infection, major due to chronic lung damage), pneumothorax (collapsed lung), and nasal polyps.
What causes exocrine pancreatic insufficiency?
Blocked pancreatic ducts prevent enzyme secretion into the intestine.
What is the hallmark feature of fat malabsorption?
Steatorrhea: large, foul-smelling stool with excess fat.
What deficiencies are associated with fat malabsorption?
Fat-soluble vitamin deficiency (A, D, E, K).
What are the consequences of protein malabsorption?
Hypoproteinemia and peripheral edema.
What is meconium ileus?
Very thick meconium blocks the ileum in newborns.
What gastrointestinal condition is very common?
GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease).
What is cholestatic jaundice?
A condition associated with liver and bile duct issues.
What bone condition is highly associated with this condition?
Osteoporosis.
What reproductive issue is common in males?
Congenital Bilateral Absence of Vas Deferens (CBAVD).
How does CBAVD affect male fertility?
It obstructs the sperm canal, causing infertility, but sperm is still produced.
What reproductive issues are common in females?
Amenorrhoea or dysmenorrhoea due to malnutrition and chronic illness.
Can females with reproductive issues still conceive?
Yes, they can still conceive.
What is the treatment for infective manifestations in respiratory conditions?
Treated immediately with very high-dose antibiotics that can be administered PO (2 weeks-1 month), IV (2-3 weeks) or NEB, covering known organisms and Pseudomonas.
How is Staphylococcus aureus infection treated in younger children?
Treated with flucloxacillin or co-amoxiclav.
What is the significance of the first growth in Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection?
First growth is most significant, treated with 3 weeks oral ciprofloxacin then 3 weeks NEB colomycin.
What characterizes Aspergillus fumigatus infection?
Acute fungal infection characterized by wheezing and can progress to Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA).
Treated with steroids and antifungals.