Cystic fibrosis in children – how is it diagnosed
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a chronic disorder that affects the lungs and digestive system. The disease is caused by abnormal secretion of very thick and sticky mucus in the body. The secretion of this mucus clogs the lungs, leading to infections, and blocks the pancreas, which prevents the normal breakdown of food by the digestive system. Cystic fibrosis is a complex disease that is caused by a defective gene. Those affected by the disease inherit two copies of a defective gene that produces a defective protein. This protein leads to mucus secretion in the lungs, pancreas, and other organs. Clogging of the lungs induces breathing difficulties and inflammation in the lungs. Mucus in the pancreas leads to malnutrition and stunted growth. Cystic fibrosis in children The cell protein cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR) malfunctions in children diagnosed with cystic fibrosis. The function of CFTR is to control the flow of water and certain salts into and from the body cells. Altered movement of salts and water can result in thickening of the mucus. The respiratory, reproductive, digestive systems and sweat glands are affected by this disease. A number of children are diagnosed with CF even before they show any signs or symptoms.