A 7-month-old male presents with failure to thrive and frequent, loose, and oily stools. Sweat testing reveals increased chloride. Which of the following would also accompany this disease?
A) Autoantibodies that target the lungs and pancreas
B) A thick mucus
C) Enzymes that degrade surfactant in the alveoli
D) A toxic amount of electrolytes from secretory glands

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms described are characteristic of cystic fibrosis, which is caused by a mutated gene that results in the production of thick, sticky mucus that clogs the lungs, pancreas, and other organs. The increased chloride in sweat is a hallmark of the disease. Autoantibodies targeting the lungs and pancreas are not a feature of cystic fibrosis. Enzymes that degrade surfactant in the alveoli and toxic amounts of electrolytes from secretory glands are not associated with the disease.

A 7-Month-Old Male Presents with Failure to Thrive and Frequent