cystic fibrosis

inherited children's disease in which there is fibrosis of the pancreas and respiratory infections

Cystic fibrosis (CF), is a hereditary disease that mainly affects the lungs and digestive system, causing progressive disability and for some, early death. Formerly known as cystic fibrosis of the pancreas, this entity has increasingly been labeled simply "cystic fibrosis". Average life expectancy is around 37 years, although improvements in treatments mean a baby born today could expect to live longer.
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Cystic fibrosis is an inherited disease that affects the lungs, digestive system, sweat glands, and male fertility. [more]Cystic fibrosis - Community and Resources

Noun
1. the most common congenital disease; the child's lungs and intestines and pancreas become clogged with thick mucus; caused by defect in a single gene; there is no cure
(synonym) CF, fibrocystic disease of the pancreas, pancreatic fibrosis, mucoviscidosis
(hypernym) fibrosis

One of the most common serious genetic (inherited) diseases. The CF gene is carried by 1/20 persons (in Caucasian populations) and 1 in 400 couples is at risk for having children with CF. CF is characterized by the production of abnormal secretions leading to mucous build-up. which can impair the pancreas (and, secondarily, the intestine). CF mucous build-up in lungs can impair respiration. Without treatment, CF results in death for 95% of children before age 5. Early diagnosis of CF is of great importance. Early and continuing treatment of CF is valuable.