New Lithuanian recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of cystic fibrosis have been published

Abstract

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is one of the most common genetic disorders inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. It is characterized by multisystem organ involvement, primarily affecting the respiratory and digestive systems. Dysfunction of the CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator) protein leads to the accumulation of thick, viscous secretions in the airways and other organs. This creates a favorable environment for chronic inflammation and recurrent infections, which over time result in progressive deterioration of lung function, pancreatic enzyme insufficiency, and damage to the liver and other organs. The first symptoms often appear in early childhood. The clinical spectrum of the disease is broad, ranging from severe respiratory complications to milder forms that may not be diagnosed until later in life.