What Is Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that affects the secretory glands of a person, including the glands that make mucus and sweat. It is inherited by a person, at the time of his birth, and mainly affects the lungs, pancreas, liver, intestines, sinuses, and sex organs. In normal circumstances, the mucus of a person is watery in nature, as it is intended to keep the linings of certain organs moist, to prevent them from drying out or getting infected. However, in people who have inherited cystic fibrosis, the mucus tends to become thick and sticky. This texture of mucus leads to its build up in the lungs and blocks the airways, apart from the tubes or ducts in the pancreas. This, in turn, leads to many other problems. In majority of the cases, doctors conduct a sweat test to diagnose cystic fibrosis.

 

Cystic fibrosis is known by a number of other names as well. These are: 

The main reason behind cystic fibrosis is a defect in the gene known as Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator (CFTR) gene. The gene is responsible for the production of a specific protein in the body, which controls the movement of salt and water in and out of the body cells. In all those people who are affected with cystic fibrosis, the gene does not work effectively and results in the formation of thick, sticky mucus, along with very salty sweat. All the people inherit two CFTR genes, one from each of the parents. When both of the CFTR genes inherited by a person are abnormal, he/ she falls victim to Cystic Fibrosis. If only one gene is abnormal, the person does not develop CF.

 

Symptoms 

 

Apart from the symptoms mentioned above, cystic fibrosis might also result in the following medical problems, in the patient: