Cystic Fibrosis: Diagnosis and Management

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner and characterized by coughing up mucus and difficulty in breathing as a result of frequent lung infections. It mostly affects the lungs but can also affect the liver, kidneys, pancreas and intestines. Other signs and symptoms of cystic fibrosis are poor growth, clubbing of fingers and toes, fatty stool, sinus infections and infertility in most males. Degrees of symptoms may vary from person to person. Cystic fibrosis can be diagnosed by genetic testing or sweat test. There is no permanent cure for this disease; however, lung infections can be treated with antibiotics. Most of the topics introduced in this book cover the advancements in the diagnosis and management of cystic fibrosis. It includes some of the vital pieces of work being conducted across the world, on various topics related to this disease. This book is meant for students who are looking for an elaborate reference text on cystic fibrosis.