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A Report On Cystic Fibrosis

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Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is described as a “congenital disorder affecting exocrine gland function, with respiratory effects, including excessive secretions, obstruction of the bronchial system, infection, and tissue damage” (Kowalczyk, 2014). Cystic fibrosis is also known as CF, and is the most common lethal disease in white children (Kowalczyk, 2014).
People whom have CF have “histologically” normal lungs at birth. Lung damage occurs when secretions from the enlarged bronchial glands gradually increase; this leads to the obstruction of the bronchial system (Kowalczyk, 2014). Mucus clogs the airways and this “plugging” promotes infection such as staph which causes more tissue damage; it also causes atelectasis and emphysema. Once this destructive cycle starts, it is very difficult to stop and ultimately results in respiratory failure (Cystic Fibrosis Foundation). Doctors will follow the diseases progression by chest x-ray; it will show the "gradual worsening of structural abnormalities" (Kowalczyk, 2014). CF does not just affect the respiratory system, but also affects the exocrine system. Parts of the exocrine system affected are salivary glands, the small bowel, pancreas, biliary tract, a female’s cervix, and the male genital system (Kowalczyk, 2014). The mucus in the pancreas stops the release of digestive enzymes; these digestive enzymes are imperative for the body to break down food and absorb nutrients (Cystic Fibrosis Foundation). Mucus can also cause liver

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