An 18-year-old man is hospitalized due to trauma sustained during a motor vehicle collision. He subsequently develops worsening shortness of breath and confusion and dies despite appropriate management. Autopsy shows dilation of the bronchial tree, which extends almost to the pleural surface. Many of the small airways are filled with mucin plugs containing abundant inflammatory cells and debris. Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's autopsy findings?

Question

An 18-year-old man is hospitalized due to trauma sustained during a motor vehicle collision.  He subsequently develops worsening shortness of breath and confusion and dies despite appropriate management.  Autopsy shows dilation of the bronchial tree, which extends almost to the pleural surface.  Many of the small airways are filled with mucin plugs containing abundant inflammatory cells and debris.  Which of the following is the most likely cause of this patient's autopsy findings?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Eductional Objective: Cystic fibrosis is an autosomal recessive disorder in which a defective chloride channel causes impaired clearance of thick, viscous airway secretions.  Patients typically develop a chronic cough, recurrent pulmonary infections, and bronchiectasis (dilated bronchial tree).

An 18-Year-Old Man Is Hospitalized Due to Trauma Sustained During