Cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disorder of the exocrine glands caused by mutation of CFTR gene which encodes an ABC transporter for salt homeostasis. CF is a common lethal single-gene disorder in Caucasians with an incidence of 1 in 1500 to 1 in 6500, whereas it is rare among Orientals (1:90000). The common clinical features are chronic pulmonary infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, respiratory distress, and pancreatic insufficiency. A part of patients with CF present with a gastrointestinal blockage known as meconium ileus.