Shahid Sheikh
Ohio State University College of Medicine, USA
Title: Cystic Fibrosis. A success story
Biography
Biography: Shahid Sheikh
Abstract
Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive progressive disease involving many organ systems but primary morbidity and mortality is with the involvement of lung disease. Because of genetic defects, inadequate hydration of pulmonary secretions leads to thick mucus causing airway obstruction which predispose to colonization, chronic infection and inflammation leading to irreversible bronchiectasis and ultimately resulting in end stage lung disease and respiratory failure. Current therapies for pulmonary disease in patients with CF decrease disease progression by improving secretion mobility and decreasing pulmonary infection and inflammation. These therapies have improved median predicted survival among patients with cystic fibrosis to more than 40 years. Now new disease modifying therapies are becoming a reality. We will discuss how life expectancy have improved over time and how it will be keep on getting better as CF now is not considered a pediatric disease. We will also discuss CF care model and its implications on other chronic illnesses.