Cystic fibrosis is the most common, lethal, genetic disease in Caucasian populations and is characterized by chronic and recurrent lung infections, pancreatic insufficiency and high sweat chloride levels. It is an autosomal recessive hereditary disease caused by a mutation in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator gene which induces the body to produce thick and viscous mucus secretions that obstruct the lungs, pancreas and bile duct. Many patients have pancreatic insufficiency which leads to malabsorption of nutrients, especially proteins and fats and to gastrointestinal complications such as rectal prolapse, intestinal obstruction syndrome, constipation and hepatic cirrhosis. Cystic fibrosis is usually diagnosed during childhood by neonatal screening programs or sweat test. Because of the multiple systems involved and the variability and chronicity of the disease, a multidisciplinary team is essential to help patients and their families understand the disease and adhere to treatment. Current cystic fibrosis therapy includes maintaining the nutritional status, clearing the airways with physiotherapy and mucolytics, preventing and treating infections with antibiotics and prescribing energy supplements, high-fat and high-protein diets, as well as minerals and fat-soluble vitamins. The purpose of this study was to present a brief literature review of the clinical and nutritional aspects of cystic fibrosis.
Malnutrition; Cystic fibrosis; Nutrition therapy