Which statement correctly describes Cystic Fibrosis?

Which statement correctly describes Cystic Fibrosis?

• A. It is an autosomal dominant disorder affecting the heart.
• B. It is an autosomal recessive disorder affecting digestive and respiratory systems.
• C. It primarily affects muscle tone in the upper extremities.
• D. It involves an extra chromosome leading to various physical disabilities.

Answer: (B)

Cystic Fibrosis is accurately described as an autosomal recessive disorder that primarily impacts the digestive and respiratory systems. This genetic condition arises from mutations in the CFTR gene, which is responsible for producing a protein that regulates salt and water in cells. As a result, individuals with Cystic Fibrosis experience the buildup of thick and sticky mucus in their lungs and digestive tract. This causes significant respiratory issues, such as frequent lung infections and difficulty breathing, as well as digestive problems due to the pancreas being blocked, leading to malabsorption of nutrients. Understanding this genetic inheritance pattern is crucial, as Cystic Fibrosis manifests only when both copies of the CFTR gene (one inherited from each parent) are mutated, distinguishing it from conditions that are autosomal dominant. Furthermore, the focus on the digestive and respiratory systems aligns with the clinical manifestations seen in individuals with this condition, underscoring the importance of targeted therapies in managing the symptoms effectively.

Cystic Fibrosis is accurately described as an autosomal recessive disorder that primarily impacts the digestive and respiratory systems. This genetic condition arises from mutations in the CFTR gene, which is responsible for producing a protein that regulates salt and water in cells. As a result, individuals with Cystic Fibrosis experience the buildup of thick and sticky mucus in their lungs and digestive tract. This causes significant respiratory issues, such as frequent lung infections and difficulty breathing, as well as digestive problems due to the pancreas being blocked, leading to malabsorption of nutrients.

Understanding this genetic inheritance pattern is crucial, as Cystic Fibrosis manifests only when both copies of the CFTR gene (one inherited from each parent) are mutated, distinguishing it from conditions that are autosomal dominant. Furthermore, the focus on the digestive and respiratory systems aligns with the clinical manifestations seen in individuals with this condition, underscoring the importance of targeted therapies in managing the symptoms effectively.