title: Cystic fibrosis: current concepts.
abstract: Cystic fibrosis (CF), a common fatal genetic disease, is a multisystem disorder whose pathogenesis has recently been linked to defects in CFTR, a newly discovered protein. CFTR is a molecular channel which controls chloride concentration in secretions of the sweat glands and the respiratory, GI, and reproductive tracts. Defective forms of CFTR, arising from various mutations in its gene, are responsible for the inadequate hydration of mucus, pancreatic juice, and other exocrine secretions. The result is dysfunction of the lungs, pancreas, and other involved organs. This article describes the diagnosis, clinical features, and approach to management of CF.
authors.affiliation: Section of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown.
authors.forename: H L
authors.initials: HL
authors.lastname: Abrons
mesh_terms: D003550:Cystic Fibrosis / Q000235:genetics / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy; D019005:Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007473:Ion Channels; D008171:Lung Diseases / Q000235:genetics; D008297:Male; D008565:Membrane Proteins / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*; D010179:Pancreas / Q000503:physiopathology
chemical_list: C505032:CFTR protein, human; D007473:Ion Channels; D008565:Membrane Proteins; D019005:Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator