cystic fibrosis: translation
Generalized abnormality of exocrine gland secretion that affects pancreas (blockage of the ducts leads to cyst formation and to a shortage of digestive enzymes), bowel, biliary tree, sweat glands and lungs. The production of abnormal mucus in the lung predisposes to respiratory infection, a major problem in children with the disorder. A fairly common (1 in 2000 live births in caucasians) autosomal recessive disease.