Cystic Fibrosis By: Sharan Kaur

How does Cystic Fibrosis occur? Cystic Fibrosis is an inherited disorder that is passed down from both parents. Both parents can not have CF, but still pass it down to their child. It is caused by a mutation made in the gene in chromosome 7; one from each parent who contributes 23 pairs. There is minimal or no production of the protein called CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator).

History Cystic Fibrosis was said to be detected in the early 1700’s, but not known under its current name. However, in the 1930’s the disorder of Cystic Fibrosis was first labeled by Swiss pediatrician Dr.Fanconi. Before getting the title Cystic Fibrosis, the disorder was named as “Celiac Syndrome.” Also, at first it was thought to be the deficiency of vitamin A , but a decade later was found to be the build up of mucus in the lungs, stomach and pancreas.

Continuation of the disorder? Yes, the disorder can be carried on from generation to the next generation. The mutation to chromosome 7 is a recessive trait which only appears if both parents have an allele for the disorder. If both parents are carriers of CF there is 1 in 4 chance of their child having Cystic Fibrosis. 1 in every 20 people in American are said to be carriers of this disorder.

Mutation Cystic Fibrosis is a gene mutation that occurs on chromosome 7 of the 23 pairs of chromosomes from each parent. Both parents need to pass this mutated gene in order for the offspring to have Cystic Fibrosis.

Phenotypic effects Not gaining the right amount of weight Not as tall as others in the same age group Salty sweat Fatigue Coughing regularly

Diagnosis Cystic Fibrosis is usually detected by doctors after the age of 3 years old. Some symptoms that suggest the presence of this disorder can be frequent chest infections, coughing regularly, salty sweats, poor height growth, and mucus with the cough are among the few symptoms that can be suspicious to a doctor that would then check for Cystic Fibrosis.

Treatment There are many ways that Cystic Fibrosis is treated. People with this disorder are recommended to exercise frequently, use inhalers and nebulizers. Furthermore, there is a therapy vest that can be more of use to teenagers. This devise shakes the chest for easier flow of mucus. Antibiotics and supplemental nutrients can be used to help in maintaining the health of the patient. Also, there is an option of a lung transplant that can lower the buildup of mucus.

Bibliography http://kidshealth.org/teen/diseases_conditions/digestive/cystic_fibrosis.html#(kidshealth.org) http://www.aboutcysticfibrosis.com/cystic-fibrosis-history.htm Google pictures