What is Cystic Fibrosis?
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disease that affects the lungs, digestive system, sweat glands and male fertility. Its name derives from the fibrous scar tissue that develops in the lung and the pancreas, the two principal organs affected by the disease.
CF affects the body’s ability to move salt and water in and out of cells; and this defect causes the lungs and pancreas to secrete thick mucus, blocking passageways and preventing proper function. The gene that, when defective, causes CF, is called the CFTR gene, which stands for cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator.
Of those with a defective CFTR gene, 70 percent have the same defect, known as delta-F508. CF is the most common genetic disease found in the Caucasian population and affects approximately 30,000 children and young adults in the United States. Individuals with CF have a variety of symptoms including:
- Very salty-tasting skin
- Persistent coughing, at times with phlegm
- Wheezing or shortness of breath
- An excessive appetite but poor weight gain
- Greasy, floating, bulky stools.
Overview of Our Center
The Adult Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Center at the University of Florida provides personalized care and support to patients and families affected by cystic fibrosis. Our center takes a team approach, bringing together specialists from a wide variety of backgrounds and areas to ensure that we address the many unique needs of our patients. Our team includes:
- A group of physician providers specializing in CF
- Experienced Researchers
- Dedicated nurses and nurse practitioners
- Social workers
- Physician Assistant
- Nutritionists
- Respiratory Therapist
- Pharmacist