chronic illness: cystic fibrosis

Cystic FibrosisBy Jennifer Clark

Why I chose CF

History of CF

Very New Misdiagnosed 1930s

Swiss pediatrician Dr. Fanconi Celiac Syndrome

Dr. Dorothy Anderson 1940-present

Causes

Both parents to child CF patients have an abnormal cystic

fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene.

Symptoms/Signs

Usually begins with simple complications 1st symptom Excessive Coughing – leads to scarred

lungs Clubbing Salt Content Infertility

Diagnosing CF

Most are diagnosed at birth or before age 2

Sweat Test Genetic Testing

Treatments

No Cure Vary from person to person – ITP Treatments for lung infections ACTs Breathing Techniques

Psychological/Social Factors

Can live a normal lifestyle No cure

Genetic mutation is from mother and father

Relevance to Child Life

Frequent hospital visits Breathing treatments Isolation

Relevant Information

NO summer camps

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Great Strides Walk

Bibliotherapy Robyn’s Book Alex: The Life of a Child

References

About cystic fibrosis. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.aboutcysticfibrosis.com/

Cystic fibrosis foundation. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.cff.org/