What is the average or median life expectancy of a cystic fibrosis patient? Today, up to what age can patients live? How is this possible?

CYSTIC FIBROSIS REVIEW ASSIGNMENT

1. This is a true story….A doctor informs a young father that his newborn baby boy has cystic fibrosis. The father says, But the grandfather says, “No, the baby can’t have cystic fibrosis—my daughter, the mother, was extensively genetically tested and she does not have the gene for cystic fibrosis.” Who is correct? The doctor or the grandfather? Explain.

Watch the following video and answer the following questions.

2. What is the CFTR protein and what is its function? What happens if this protein is defective in cystic fibrosis patients?

3. As a doctor, what are three important tests you would order to confirm a CF diagnosis and why?

4. If early screening finds a CF mutation in a child, would you recommend genetic counseling for the family? Explain your reasons why.

5. What is the average or median life expectancy of a cystic fibrosis patient? Today, up to what age can patients live? How is this possible?

6. Why is the skin of cystic fibrosis patients salty ?

7. Why do CF patients have greasy stools and persistent cough?

8. What is the bacterial pathogen involved in severe lung infections in later stages of CF?