Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a chronic, genetic disease that affects about 30,000 people in the United States and 70,000 people worldwide. The defective gene found in CF patients causes the body to make thick mucus that can clog the lungs and lead to infection. It may also block the pancreas and keep natural enzymes from helping the body digest and absorb food.

Focused Care

Children with cystic fibrosis are urged to visit an accredited care center four times a year for visits, which include evaluations with a physician, respiratory therapist, nutritionist and social worker. Driscoll Children’s Hospital’s earned accreditation makes it easier for patients to make those visits.

The Driscoll Children’s Hospital Cystic Fibrosis Center houses an experienced team of physicians, respiratory therapists, physical therapists, nurses, pharmacists, nutritionists and social workers ready to treat patients with the highest quality care available.

Treatments

Airway Clearance Technique (ACT): Helps loosen the thick mucus in the lungs and improve lung function

Inhaled medications: Used with ACT to help clear mucus from the lungs; given by aerosol or by a metered dose inhaler (MDI)

Antibiotics: Medications that stop infection-causing bacteria; given orally, through an IV or by aerosol

Pancreatic enzymes: Help digest food and replace natural enzymes that are unable to pass through the blocked pancreatic ducts; given orally in capsule form

Exercise: Improve lung function with a range of strength, posture and endurance building activity