Cystic Fibrosis: Complications & Lung Transplantation as Treatment

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Cystic fibrosis can lead to frequent respiratory
infections, difficulty breathing, stomach and
digestive problems, weight loss, liver issues,
infertility, and even respiratory failure.
Unfortunately, this condition is passed down
through genes from parents, which means children,
through no fault of their own, can suffer from
this serious disease if its left
untreated. There is no cure for cystic fibrosis,
but with the right care, symptoms and
complications can be effectively managed. In this
blog, well dive into this serious condition,
explore its origins, understand its symptoms, and
look at lung transplants as a potential treatment
for cystic fibrosis.
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Cystic Fibrosis How Does It Happen? Cystic
fibrosis is caused by a genetic mutation in the
CFTR gene. This mutation results in the
production of thick and sticky mucus, which
builds up primarily in the lungs and pancreas,
but can also affect other areas. The abnormal
mucus clogs the airways, leading to difficulty
breathing and an increased risk of respiratory
infections. Over time, this build-up in the lungs
causes chronic inflammation, scarring, and even
irreversible lung damage. In short, the
overproduction of mucus in the lungs creates a
domino effect that gradually affects almost every
organ in the body.
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• Cystic Fibrosis The Complications It Can Cause
• The thick, sticky mucus in cystic fibrosis blocks
  the pancreas ducts, preventing digestive enzymes
  from reaching the intestines. This blockage leads
  to poor digestion, reduce absorption of nutrients
  weight loss, and overall malnutrition.
• The build-up of mucus in the liver can result in
  chronic inflammation and scarring which can
  potentially lead to impaired liver function and
  liver diseases.
• In few cases, cystic fibrosis causes a blockage
  in the vas deferens which prevents sperm from
  reaching the urethra. In women, thickened
  cervical mucus makes it harder for sperm to pass
  through the cervix leading to conception
  difficulties.

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• Due to the increased strain on the lungs from
  mucus build up, the heart will need to work
  harder to pump blood through the lungs. Over
  time, this can lead to heart complications also.
• Cystic Fibrosis Lung Transplantation as
  Treatment Option
• Chest physiotherapy, medications, pancreatic
  enzyme supplements for digestion, and even gene
  therapy are some common treatment options for
  cystic fibrosis. These help manage symptoms and
  improve the overall condition. In severe cases
  where the lungs are severely damaged, and
  standard treatments fail to improve quality of
  life, a lung transplant is another effective
  treatment option.

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When is Lung Transplantation Considered? Lung
transplantation is recommended for cystic
fibrosis patients when lung function drops to
less than 30 of normal capacity. According to
Dr. Alla Gopal Krishna Gokhale, a lung transplant
surgeon in Hyderabad, frequent and severe lung
infections, respiratory failure, and a regular
need for oxygen therapy are also indicators that
a lung transplant may be necessary. Lung
Transplantation and Its Benefits for Cystic
Fibrosis Treatment in a lung transplant, one or
both lungs are replaced with healthy lungs from a
donor. Double lung transplants are more common in
cystic fibrosis because both lungs are usually
affected.
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A lung transplant can provide a fresh lease on
life for cystic fibrosis patients, improving
breathing, enhancing quality of life, and, in
successful cases, extending life by years, even
decades, says Dr. Gokhale. However, its
important to note that while a lung transplant
can significantly extend life and improve
quality, it is not a cure for cystic fibrosis.
With proper medical support, it can offer a
chance at a better, longer life. If youre in
Hyderabad and seeking more information about lung
transplants for cystic fibrosis, Dr. Alla Gopal
Krishna Gokhale is one of Indias top lung
transplant surgeons, known for his remarkable
success record. You can contact him here.
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