Cystic Fibrosis and the
Digestive System
How does CF affect the digestive system?Children with CF have an abnormality in the function of a cell
protein called the cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator (CFTR). CFTR
controls the flow of water and certain salts in and out of the body's
cells. As the movement of salt and water in and out of cells is altered,
mucus becomes thickened.
In the digestive system, CF mainly affects the pancreas. The pancreas
is an organ that secretes substances which aid in digestion and control
the levels of blood sugar.
As a result of the abnormality in the function of the cystic fibrosis
transmembrane regulator (CFTR), the secretions from the pancreas become
thick and lead to an obstruction of the ducts. This obstruction then
causes a decrease in the secretion of digestive enzymes from the pancreas.
A child with CF has difficulty absorbing fats, some proteins, and
fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.
The problems with the pancreas can become so severe that some of the
hormone cells in the pancreas can be destroyed. This may lead to glucose
intolerance and insulin-dependent diabetes. About 15 percent of CF
patients develop this type of diabetes.
The symptoms that may be present due to the effects of CF on the
digestive system include the following:
- frequent, bulky, greasy stools
- rectal prolapse - a condition in which the end part of the bowels
comes out of the anus.
- fat in the stools
- stomach pain
- bloody diarrhea
- poor growth
- gallstones
The liver may also be affected. A small number of patients may actually
develop liver disease. Symptoms of liver disease may include:
- enlarged liver
- swollen abdomen
- yellow color to the skin
- vomiting of blood
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