Evidence-based practice recommendations for nutrition-related management of children and adults with cystic fibrosis and pancreatic insufficiency: results of a systematic review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC. 2008;108:832-839. [PMID: 18442507 DOI: 10.1016/j.jada.2008.02.020]

Italian and North American dietary intake after ivacaftor treatment for Cystic Fibrosis Gating Mutations

BACKGROUND

In patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), ivacaftor treatment results in significant weight gain and the impact on diet has not been explored.

METHODS

A study in 22 subjects (6.1-61.6 years) compared diet, energy balance, weight gain, and body composition, before and after three months of treatment in Italians and North Americans with CFTR gating mutations.

RESULTS

With no differences between groups in energy or macronutrient intake at baseline, fat intake increased in all subjects, and both fat and energy intake increased in Italians. Height, weight, BMI, lean and fat mass, and % body fat increased and resting energy expenditure decreased after treatment. Weight gain was associated with energy and fat intake.

CONCLUSIONS

Fat intake increased with treatment, possibly due to the recommendation to take ivacaftor with high fat meals. Increased energy and fat intake correlated with weight gain. Regional dietary patterns differed.

Nutritional Considerations in Pediatric Pancreatitis: A Position Paper from the NASPGHAN Pancreas Committee and ESPGHAN Cystic Fibrosis/Pancreas Working Group

OBJECTIVES

Wide variations exist in how physicians manage the nutritional aspects of children affected by acute pancreatitis (AP), acute recurrent pancreatitis (ARP), and chronic (CP) pancreatitis. Better consensus for optimal management is needed.

METHODS

This consensus statement on nutrition in pediatric pancreatic diseases was developed through a joint ESPGHAN-NASPGHAN working group that performed an evidence-based search of the literature on nutrition in AP, ARP, and CP with a focus on pediatrics. The literature was summarized, quality of evidence reviewed, and expert recommendations developed. The authorship met to discuss the evidence and statements. Voting on recommendations occurred over 2 rounds based on feedback. A consensus of at least 75% was required to approve a recommendation. Areas requiring further research were identified.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The literature on nutrition in pediatric pancreatitis is limited. Children with mild AP benefit from starting an early nutritional regimen in the course of the attack. Early nutrition should be attempted in severe AP when possible; enteral nutrition is preferred over parenteral nutrition. Children with ARP are likely to tolerate and benefit from a regular diet. Children with CP need ongoing assessment for growth and nutritional deficiencies, exocrine and endocrine insufficiencies.

CONCLUSIONS

This document presents the first authoritative recommendations on nutritional considerations in pediatric pancreatitis. Future research should address the gaps in knowledge particularly relating to optimal nutrition for AP in children, role of diet or dietary supplements on recurrent attacks of pancreatitis and pain episodes, monitoring practices to detect early growth and nutritional deficiencies in CP and identifying risk factors that predispose children to these deficiencies.

Patient and Provider Perspectives on Communication About Body Image With Adolescents and Young Adults With Cystic Fibrosis

Objective

This mixed-methods study examined perspectives of adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with cystic fibrosis (CF) and health care providers on body image communication.

Methods

Interviews and questionnaires were completed by 20 AYAs and 28 providers.

Results

Although 85% of patients reported they had never had a body image conversation with a health care provider, 74% of providers reported discussing this topic with patients. Patients and providers described body image as an important issue, which should be discussed comfortably and supportively. However, patients often preferred to discuss body image as a distinct topic, separate from physical health, whereas providers preferred integrating body image conversations within weight- and health-based discussions.

Conclusions

Body image is an important topic for AYAs with CF that often goes unaddressed or addressed in ways that are less preferred by patients. Providers should reduce barriers to effective communication about this important topic, particularly through increased awareness of AYA preferences.

Growth trajectories and oxygen use in neuroendocrine cell hyperplasia of infancy

RATIONALE

Neuroendocrine cell hyperplasia of infancy (NEHI) typically presents in infancy with tachypnea, retractions, and hypoxemia. Some infants have failure to thrive, yet the frequency of this and other non-respiratory phenotypic features have not been delineated. While gradual improvement occurs, the clinical course is variable and the duration of supplemental oxygen requirement has not been defined.

OBJECTIVES

Our objective was to identify factors in NEHI that may drive differences in clinical course. We hypothesized that failure to thrive would be associated with greater duration of supplemental oxygen use.

METHODS

Children with NEHI were identified as a nested retrospective cohort within an ongoing observational prospective study. An electronic questionnaire evaluating health status was distributed to the parents/guardians. Clinical data were obtained via chart review and parent interview.

RESULTS

Of 42 children, 74% had a diagnosis of failure to thrive during their clinical course. Time to event analysis demonstrated that 50% discontinued daytime and nighttime oxygen at 32 and 87.5 months after initiation, respectively. Diagnosis of failure to thrive was associated with longer continuous oxygen supplementation, P = 0.03. Additional parental concerns identified through the electronic questionnaire included developmental delays, multiple hospitalizations, and delays in diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

NEHI is associated with substantial respiratory and extra-pulmonary morbidity. Failure to thrive may be associated with greater respiratory morbidity, though further studies are required to define this interaction. Determining the association of these comorbidities and respiratory course in NEHI may enable development of strategies to improve these modifiable factors and potentially pulmonary outcomes.

Pancreatic Enzyme Replacement Therapy Use in Infants With Cystic Fibrosis Diagnosed by Newborn Screening

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study is to describe pancreatic enzyme practices during the first year of life in infants with cystic fibrosis (CF) and evaluate associations between dosing and outcomes, including growth and gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms.

METHODS

We analyzed data from a subset of infants who were in a prospective cohort study conducted at 28 US CF centers. Anthropometric measurements and medications were recorded at each visit. Diaries with infant diet, pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) dosing, stool frequency and consistency, and pain were completed by a parent/guardian for 3 days before each visit.

RESULTS

Two hundred and thirty-one infants were enrolled in the main study; 205 of these met criteria for pancreatic insufficiency (PI). PERT dose between birth and 6 months was on average 1882 LU/kg per meal (range: 492-3727) and was similar between 6 and 12 months (mean: 1842 LU/kg per mean, range: 313-3612). PERT dose had a weak, negative association with weight z score at 3 and 6 months (r = -0.16, 95% confidence interval [CI] -0.29 to -0.02 and r = -0.18, 95% CI -0.31 to -0.04, respectively) but not at 12 months. There was not a clear relationship between PERT dosing and number of stools per day, stool consistency or pain. One hundred and forty-four infants (70%) were placed on acid suppression medication. Weight z score mean was 0.37 higher in infants using proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) exclusively versus those using histamine-2 blockers exclusively (95% CI -0.02 to 0.76, P = 0.06).

CONCLUSIONS

We did not observe that centers with a higher PERT dosing strategy yielded greater clinical benefit than dosing at the lower end of the recommended range.

ECFS best practice guidelines: the 2018 revision

Developments in managing CF continue to drive dramatic improvements in survival. As newborn screening rolls-out across Europe, CF centres are increasingly caring for cohorts of patients who have minimal lung disease on diagnosis. With the introduction of mutation-specific therapies and the prospect of truly personalised medicine, patients have the potential to enjoy good quality of life in adulthood with ever-increasing life expectancy. The landmark Standards of Care published in 2005 set out what high quality CF care is and how it can be delivered throughout Europe. This underwent a fundamental re-write in 2014, resulting in three documents; center framework, quality management and best practice guidelines. This document is a revision of the latter, updating standards for best practice in key aspects of CF care, in the context of a fast-moving and dynamic field. In continuing to give a broad overview of the standards expected for newborn screening, diagnosis, preventative treatment of lung disease, nutrition, complications, transplant/end of life care and psychological support, this consensus on best practice is expected to prove useful to clinical teams both in countries where CF care is developing and those with established CF centres. The document is an ECFS product and endorsed by the CF Network in ERN LUNG and CF Europe.

EPC/HPSG evidence-based guidelines for the management of pediatric pancreatitis

BACKGROUND

Pediatric pancreatitis is an underdiagnosed disease with variable etiology. In the past 10-15 years the incidence of pediatric pancreatitis has increased, it is now 3.6-13.3 cases per 100,000 children. Up-to-date evidence based management guidelines are lacking for the pediatric pancreatitis. The European Pancreatic Club, in collaboration with the Hungarian Pancreatic Study Group organized a consensus guideline meeting on the diagnosis and management of pancreatitis in the pediatric population.

METHODS

Pediatric Pancreatitis was divided into three main clinical categories: acute pancreatitis, acute recurrent pancreatitis and chronic pancreatitis. Fifteen relevant topics (acute pancreatitis: diagnosis; etiology; prognosis; imaging; complications; therapy; biliary tract management; acute recurrent pancreatitis: diagnosis; chronic pancreatitis: diagnosis, etiology, treatment, imaging, intervention, pain, complications; enzyme replacement) were defined. Ten experts from the USA and Europe reviewed and summarized the available literature. Evidence was classified according to the GRADE classification system.

RESULTS

Within fifteen topics, forty-seven relevant clinical questions were defined. The draft of the updated guideline was presented and discussed at the consensus meeting held during the 49th Meeting of European Pancreatic Club, in Budapest, on July 1, 2017.

CONCLUSIONS

These evidence-based guidelines provides the current state of the art of the diagnosis and management of pediatric pancreatitis.

Nutritional management of cystic fibrosis - an update for the 21st century

Nutritional management is an essential part of multidisciplinary care for infants, children and adults with cystic fibrosis (CF). In 2016 two updated nutritional consensus guidelines were published [1,2]. This review will explore some of the key points in the nutritional management of people with CF in the 21st Century.

The relationship between energy intake and body-growth in children with cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Body-growth, expressed as weight- and height gain, is a strong predictor of morbidity and mortality in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). Whether current historically based recommendations on a high-energy diet are sufficient for optimal growth is questionable. We therefore assessed the longitudinal relation between body-growth and routine energy intake in paediatric CF patients.

METHODS

Included were patients with CF, aged 2-10 years of whom we obtained 969 measurements of weight and height along with dietary records, and 786 coefficient of fat absorption measurements (CFA). We described body-growth, energy intake, macronutrient intake and the long-term effect of energy intake and coefficient of fat absorption on body-growth during the 8-year follow-up period.

RESULTS

Enrolled were 191 children with CF who had a compromised growth when compared to healthy children. The dietary intake was ≥110% estimated average requirement (EAR) in 47% of the measurements (457/969) and did not (fully) achieve the recommended high-energy level (110-200% EAR). Further, the intake expressed as EAR decreased with increasing age. Cross-sectionally, boys and girls with higher caloric intakes had higher weight-for-age (WFA). The caloric intake explained 18 and 6% of the variation. Further, boys with higher caloric intakes had also higher height-for-age-adjusted-for-target-height (HFA/TH) or BMI. The caloric intake explained 6 or 7% of the variation. Longitudinally, caloric intake was associated with both WFA in boys and girls, and with BMI in boys. Each 100 calories increased intake would result in a 0.01 (girls)-0.02 increase in z-score WFA and 0.03 increase in z-score BMI. We found no significant association between CFA and WFA, HFA/TH or BMI. The contribution of protein, fat and carbohydrates was not associated with WFA, nor with HFA/TH or BMI.

CONCLUSION

Even at this relatively early age, a compromised growth in children with CF was found when compared to healthy children. The energy intake was below 110% EAR in 47% of the measurements, and appeared to be insufficient to prevent suboptimal body-growth over the 8-years of follow-up.

A quality improvement program to improve nutritional status of children with Cystic Fibrosis aged 2-12 years old over a 3 year period at CF center Roscoff, Brittany

Background

The Cystic Fibrosis (CF) center in Roscoff (Brittany) has been involved in therapeutic education programs (TEP) since 2006 and took part in the pilot phase of the French quality improvement program (QIP) since 2011. The aim was to improve the nutritional status of children with cystic fibrosis aged 2-12 years old in order to optimize their health status as they enter adolescence.

Methods

A multidisciplinary quality team was created in order to select and address a specific health problem among our pediatric population. Following analysis of yearly indicators for our CF center, our team chose to improve quality of care concerning nutritional status of children aged 2-12 years old. Factors influencing efficacy were studied, tools were developed to implement a new nutritional program, results were analyzed on a real-time basis.

Results

Over the 3 year period, all patients from 2 years of age, were monitored with the new follow-up program (2012: N = 34; 2014: N = 44). Each patient was followed up at every clinic visit, their BMI z-score was calculated to decide their nutritional risk and personalize their follow-up program consequently. Between 1/1/2012 and 31/12/2014, the mean BMI z-score of the open cohort improved from −0.49 to −0.22.

Conclusions

Since 2014, focus on nutrition using the newly-adapted program has become routine practice at each follow-up visit. Patients and parents expressed a high level of satisfaction (75% very satisfied). The follow-up program aimed at improving nutritional status for children aged 2-12 years old was successfully implemented and integrated into routine practice; it was therefore extended to all children with CF (1 month - 18 years) in our center. The relationship among professional and patients and parents was strengthened.

Early life growth patterns persist for 12 years and impact pulmonary outcomes in cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

In children with cystic fibrosis (CF), recovery from growth faltering within 2 years of diagnosis (Responders) is associated with better growth and less lung disease at age 6 years. This study examined whether these benefits are sustained through 12 years of age.

METHODS

Longitudinal growth from 76 children with CF enrolled in the Wisconsin CF Neonatal Screening Project was examined and categorized into 5 groups: R₁₂, R₆, and R₂, representing Responders who maintained growth improvement to age 12, 6, and 2 years, respectively, and I₆ and N_6, representing Non-responders whose growth did and did not improve during ages 2-6 years, respectively. Lung disease was evaluated by % predicted forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV₁) and chest radiograph (CXR) scores.

RESULTS

Sixty-two percent were Responders. Within this group, 47% were R₁₂, 28% were R₆, and 25% were R₂. Among Non-responders, 76% were N₆. CF children with meconium ileus (MI) had worse lung function and CXR scores compared to other CF children. Among 53 children with pancreatic insufficiency without MI, R₁₂ had significantly better FEV₁ (97-99% predicted) and CXR scores during ages 6-12 years than N₆ (89-93% predicted). Both R₆ and R₂ experienced a decline in FEV₁ by ages 10-12 years.

CONCLUSIONS

Early growth recovery in CF is critical, as malnutrition during infancy tends to persist and catch-up growth after age 2 years is difficult. The longer adequate growth was maintained after early growth recovery, the better the pulmonary outcomes at age 12 years.

ASSOCIAÇÃO DO ESTADO NUTRICIONAL COM FUNÇÃO PULMONAR E MORBIDADE EM CRIANÇAS E ADOLESCENTES COM FIBROSE CÍSTICA: COORTE DE 36 MESES

Objective:

To evaluate the association between nutritional status, lung function and morbidity in a 36-month cohort in children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis.

Methods:

Prospective cohort of children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis aged 1-15 years. At the baseline, the nutritional status was determined by weight-for-height and body mass index-for-age for children <2 years and ≥2 years, respectively, and classified as: nutritional failure, nutritional risk and acceptable; and by the 50th percentile, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) growth charts. Lung function was assessed by forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1). Morbidity was determined by the presence of infection and hospitalization by pulmonary exacerbation. Risk ratio and 95% confidence interval (95%CI) were calculated, being significant when p<0.05.

Results:

We evaluated 38 children and adolescents (median age 3.8 years). Patients that were classified as having nutritional failure at baseline had a RR of 5.00 (95%CI 1.49; 16.76) to present impaired lung function after 36 months. Those classified bellow the 50th percentile had a RR of 4.61 (95%CI 0.89; 23.81) to present the same outcome. Nutritional status was not a risk factor for morbidity in this cohort.

Conclusions:

Nutritional deficit was associated with impaired lung function, but not with morbidity in children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis.

BMI fails to identify poor nutritional status in stunted children with CF

BACKGROUND

Body mass index (BMI) is currently emphasized for evaluating nutritional status in children with cystic fibrosis (CF). Weight for age (WFA) and height for age (HFA) may get less attention.

METHODS

Data from the Epidemiologic Study of Cystic Fibrosis were used to compare patient WFA, HFA, and BMI percentiles for children age 2 to 18years.

RESULTS

For children with BMI between the 25th and 50th percentiles, 16.8% had WFA <10th percentile and 26.6% had HFA <10th percentile.

CONCLUSIONS

BMI fails to identify a substantial proportion of children with CF who have stunting or potentially poor nutritional status as measured by WFA and/or HFA.

Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy after gastric resection: An update

Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) is one of the possible mechanisms of fat maldigestion following gastric surgery, together with reduced food intake, loss of gastric reservoir, small bowel bacterial overgrowth and rapid small bowel transit. Oral pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) is the mainstay of treatment for EPI. The efficacy and safety of pancreatic enzyme substitution in patients following gastric resection remains unclear. This review article summarizes relevant studies addressing PERT after gastric resection.

C-reactive protein/albumin ratio is associated with lung function among children/adolescents with cystic fibrosis: a three-year longitudinal study

BACKGROUND

Chronic lung infections, inflammation and depletion of nutritional status are considered to be prognostic indicators of morbidity in patients with cystic fibrosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between inflammatory markers and lung function, nutritional status and morbidity among children/adolescents with cystic fibrosis.

DESIGN AND SETTINGS

Prospective three-year longitudinal study conducted in an outpatient clinic in southern Brazil.

METHODS

Children/adolescents aged 1-15 years with cystic fibrosis were enrolled. Nutritional status was determined from weight-to-length and body mass index-to-age z-scores and was classified as acceptable, at risk or nutritional failure. Tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-1β, myeloperoxidase, C-reactive protein and C-reactive protein/albumin ratio were analyzed. Lung function was evaluated based on the forced expiratory volume in the first second and morbidity according to the number of hospitalizations for pulmonary exacerbation and infections by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Lung function, nutritional status and morbidity were the outcomes. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were to evaluate the effect of baseline inflammatory markers on the clinical outcomes after three years of follow-up and p-values < 0.05 were considered significant.

RESULTS

We evaluated 38 children/adolescents with cystic fibrosis: 55% female; median age (with interquartile range), 3.75 years (2.71-7.00). Children/adolescents with high C-reactive protein/albumin ratio at baseline had odds of 18 (P = 0.018) of presenting forced expiratory volume in the first second ≤ 70% after three years. The other inflammatory markers were not associated with the outcomes.

CONCLUSION

C-reactive protein/albumin ratio was associated with forced expiratory volume in the first second ≤ 70% after three years.

Pancreatic Divisum: An Unusual Cause of Chronic Pancreatitis in a Young Patient

Pancreatic divisum is a condition that occurs in 4-14% of the population. Pancreatic divisum occurs in development when the ventral bud and dorsal bud of the pancreas fail to fuse. Patients with this condition are usually asymptomatic, however, 25-38% of these patients experience recurrent pancreatitis that may further progress to chronic pancreatitis. This case is of a 20-year-old female presenting with abdominal pain in the left and right upper quadrants of the abdomen with a significant history of recurrent pancreatitis since the age of seven. The patient was examined with computed tomography (CT), which identified pancreatitis. Further magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) assisted in the diagnosis of a type III pancreatic divisum, given the remnant of short communication between the dorsal and ventral duct.

High attainment of optimal nutritional and growth status observed among Greek pediatric cystic fibrosis patients: results from the GreeCF study

BACKGROUND

Pediatric cystic fibrosis (CF) patients suffer high rates of undernutrition, subject to several parameters. We aimed to assess growth and nutritional status of Greek children and adolescents with CF.

METHODS

Eighty-four patients (35 boys) formed the sample. Anthropometrics and FEV1 were measured, growth and weight status were assessed. Body mass index (BMI), arm circumference (MUAC), fat (MUAFA) and muscle (MUAMA) were calculated.

RESULTS

In the total sample, 6.0% of the patients were underweight, 4.8% stunted, 8.3% wasted and 17.9% in nutritional failure, whereas 59.5% attained the ideal BMI for CF. FEV1 positively associated with BMI (B=0.03, p≤0.003), weight (B=0.03, p≤0.003) and MUAMA z-scores (B=0.04, p≤0.005). Meconium ileus negatively associated with FEV1 (B=-14.17, p≤0.003) and stature (B=-0.65, p≤0.043). Pancreatic insufficiency negatively influenced MUAC and MUAFA z-scores (p≤0.05 for both).

CONCLUSIONS

The examined CF patients appear to be thriving. Unlike published research, the participants' sex, gene mutation and acquisition of pathogens did not affect growth.

Cystic fibrosis and Silver-Russell syndrome due to a partial maternal isodisomy of chromosome 7

If an infant with cystic fibrosis exhibits failure to thrive, despite adequate disease management, Silver–Russell syndrome should be considered, given the locations of these conditions in the genome. However, an earlier clue to the diagnosis is small‐for‐gestational‐age birth.

Brazilian guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of cystic fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder characterized by dysfunction of the CFTR gene. It is a multisystem disease that most often affects White individuals. In recent decades, various advances in the diagnosis and treatment of CF have drastically changed the scenario, resulting in a significant increase in survival and quality of life. In Brazil, the current neonatal screening program for CF has broad coverage, and most of the Brazilian states have referral centers for the follow-up of individuals with the disease. Previously, CF was limited to the pediatric age group. However, an increase in the number of adult CF patients has been observed, because of the greater number of individuals being diagnosed with atypical forms (with milder phenotypic expression) and because of the increase in life expectancy provided by the new treatments. However, there is still great heterogeneity among the different regions of Brazil in terms of the access of CF patients to diagnostic and therapeutic methods. The objective of these guidelines was to aggregate the main scientific evidence to guide the management of these patients. A group of 18 CF specialists devised 82 relevant clinical questions, divided into five categories: characteristics of a referral center; diagnosis; treatment of respiratory disease; gastrointestinal and nutritional treatment; and other aspects. Various professionals working in the area of CF in Brazil were invited to answer the questions devised by the coordinators. We used the PubMed database to search the available literature based on keywords, in order to find the best answers to these questions.

Nationwide trends of hospitalizations for cystic fibrosis in the United States from 2003 to 2013

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a multisystem autosomal recessive genetic disorder with significant advances in early diagnosis and treatment in the last decade. It is important to provide updated information regarding these changing demographics as they also reflect a considerable improvement in survival. We analyzed the National Inpatient Sample Database (NIS) in the United States for all patients in which CF was the primary discharge diagnosis (ICD-9: 277.0-277.09) from 2003 to 2013 to evaluate the rate of hospitalizations and determine the cost and mortality associated with CF along with other epidemiological findings. The statistical significance of the difference in the number of hospital discharges, lengths of stays and associated hospital costs over the study period was calculated. In 2003, there were 8,328 hospital discharges with the principal discharge diagnosis of CF in the United States, which increased to 12,590 discharges in 2013 (p < 0.001). The mean hospital charges increased by 57.64% from US$ 60,051 in 2003 to US$ 94,664 in 2013. The aggregate cost of hospital visits increased by 138.31% from US$ 500,105,727 to US$ 1,191,819,760. In the same time, the mortality decreased by 49.3 %. The number of inpatient discharges related to CF has increased from 2003 to 2013. This is due to increased life expectancy of CF patients, resulting in increased disease prevalence. There has been a significant increase in the mean and aggregate cost associated with CF admissions. Over the last decade, many advances have been made in the diagnosis and treatment of CF, consequentially leading to a significant transformation in the epidemiology and demographics of this chronic disease. Rising hospital costs associated with the care of CF patients necessitates future studies analyzing the diagnostic modalities, algorithms and treatment practices of physician's treating CF patients.

Factors associated with malnutrition in adolescent and adult patients with cystic fibrosis

OBJECTIVE

To determine the prevalence of malnutrition in patients attending an adult cystic fibrosis (CF) program and to investigate the associations of malnutrition with the clinical characteristics of those patients.

METHODS

This was a cross-sectional study involving patients with clinically stable CF patients (16 years of age or older). The patients underwent clinical assessment, nutritional assessments, pulmonary function tests, and pancreatic function assessment. They also completed a questionnaire regarding diet compliance. On the basis of their nutritional status, the patients were classified divided into three groups: adequate nutrition; at nutritional risk; and malnutrition.

RESULTS

The study has included 73 patients (mean age, 25.6 ± 7.3 years), 40 of whom (54.8%) were female. The mean body mass index was 21.0 ± 3.0 kg/m2 and the mean FEV1 was 59.7 ± 30.6% of predicted. In this sample of patients, 32 (43.8%), 23 (31.5%), and 18 (24.7%) of the patients were allocated to the adequate nutrition, nutritional risk, and malnutrition groups, respectively. The logistic regression analysis identified three independent factors associated with the risk of malnutrition: Shwachman-Kulczycki score, percent predicted FEV1; and age.

CONCLUSIONS

Malnutrition remains a common complication in adolescents and adults with CF, despite dietary advice. Malnutrition is associated with age, clinical severity, and lung function impairment.

Body composition and lung function in children with cystic fibrosis and meconium ileus

The aim of this study was to explore whether history of meconium ileus (MI) at birth in children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis (CF) adversely affects body composition and lung function in later life. Data of children and adolescents with CF who underwent spirometry and DXA as part of their routine care were analyzed. Associations between MI (explanatory variable) and areal bone mineral density (total body less head-TBLH aBMD), lean tissue mass (LTM), and fat mass (FM) (outcomes) were assessed using general linear models. Potential relationships of TBLH aBMD, LTM, and FM with FEV₁ (additional outcome) were also explored. One hundred and one subjects with CF (mean age 14 ± 3 years) were included, 19 (18.8%) of whom had history of MI. Negative associations were demonstrated between history of MI and FEV₁ (P = 0.04), TBLH aBMD (P = 0.03), and FM (P < 0.01) but not between history of MI and LTM (P = 0.07) after adjustment for other variables. Lung function was positively associated with TBLH aBMD (P < 0.01) and LTM (P = 0.02) but not with FM (P = 0.20).

CONCLUSION

Among children and adolescents with CF, those with history of MI have lower bone mineral density, FM, and lung function. What is Known: • Among children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis, those with history of meconium ileus in the neonatal period are at risk of having lower body mass index percentile and FEV ₁ percent predicted. What is New: • Children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis and history of meconium ileus have decreased bone mineral density and fat mass compared to patients without such history. • Lower lung function in children with MI coexists with suboptimal bone mineral density.

Oral calorie supplements for cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Poor nutrition occurs frequently in people with cystic fibrosis and is associated with other adverse outcomes. Oral calorie supplements are used to increase total daily calorie intake and improve weight gain. However, they are expensive and there are concerns they may reduce the amount of food eaten and not improve overall energy intake. This is an update of a previously published review.

OBJECTIVES

To establish whether in people with cystic fibrosis, oral calorie supplements: increase daily calorie intake; and improve overall nutritional intake, nutritional indices, lung function, survival and quality of life. To assess adverse effects associated with using these supplements.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Cystic Fibrosis Trials Register comprising references from comprehensive electronic database searches, handsearches of relevant journals and abstract books of conference proceedings. We contacted companies marketing oral calorie supplements.Last search: 18 October 2016.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised or quasi-randomised controlled trials comparing use of oral calorie supplements for at least one month to increase calorie intake with no specific intervention or additional nutritional advice in people with cystic fibrosis.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We independently selected the included trials, assessed risk of bias and extracted data. We contacted the authors of included trials and obtained additional information for two trials.

MAIN RESULTS

We identified 21 trials and included three, reporting results from 131 participants lasting between three months and one year. Two trials compared supplements to additional nutritional advice and one to no intervention. Two of the included trials recruited only children. In one trial the risk of bias was low across all domains, in a second trial the risk of bias was largely unclear and in the third mainly low. Blinding of participants was unclear in two of the trials. Also, in one trial the clinical condition of groups appeared to be unevenly balanced at baseline and in another trial there were concerns surrounding allocation concealment. There were no significant differences between people receiving supplements or dietary advice alone for change in weight, height, body mass index, z score or other indices of nutrition or growth. Changes in weight (kg) at three, six and 12 months respectively were: mean difference (MD) 0.32 (95% confidence interval (CI) -0.09 to 0.72); MD 0.47 (95% CI -0.07 to 1.02 ); and MD 0.16 (-0.68 to 1.00). Total calorie intake was greater in people taking supplements at 12 months, MD 265.70 (95% CI 42.94 to 488.46). There were no significant differences between the groups for anthropometric measures of body composition, lung function, gastro-intestinal adverse effects or activity levels. Moderate quality evidence exists for the outcomes of changes in weight and height and low quality evidence exists for the outcomes of change in total calories, total fat and total protein intake as results are applicable only to children between the ages of 2 and 15 years and many post-treatment diet diaries were not returned. Evidence for the rate of adverse events in the treatment groups was extremely limited and judged to be of very low quality AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS: Oral calorie supplements do not confer any additional benefit in the nutritional management of moderately malnourished children with cystic fibrosis over and above the use of dietary advice and monitoring alone. While nutritional supplements may be used, they should not be regarded as essential. Further randomised controlled trials are needed to establish the role of short-term oral protein energy supplements in people with cystic fibrosis and acute weight loss and also for the long-term nutritional management of adults with cystic fibrosis or advanced lung disease, or both.

Cardiopulmonary exercise testing in children with cystic fibrosis: one centre's experience

BACKGROUND

While exercise testing is increasingly used as a prognostic indicator in cystic fibrosis (CF), it is reported to be underused in UK CF centres, particularly in children. Here, we evaluated the cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) results in children and young people with CF at CF annual review and its possible clinical value.

METHOD

An observational study comparing CPET results using a cycle ergometer ramp test (peak oxygen uptake (Vo_2peak)) and pulmonary function (forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV₁)) was performed with body mass index (BMI) used as a disease severity marker. Data were identified from clinical case notes and our CF database.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight children and young people (mean age 11±2.4, range 7-14 years; 17 males and 21 females) completed at least one CPET with 95% achieving technically satisfactory tests allowing measurement of Vo_2peak. Mean Vo_2peak was 107 ±17.6% predicted, range 74%-150% predicted, with 8% having a reduced Vo_2peak of <85% of predicted. Mean FEV₁ z-score was -0.77±1.24, range -4.42 to 2.24. We did not demonstrate a significant correlation between Vo_2peak % predicted and FEV₁ z-score (r=0.25, p=0.13), or between Vo_2peak % predicted and BMI z-score (r=-0.05, p=0.77). Twenty-eight of 38 completed a second CPET the following year with 71% showing a decline in Vo_2peak (mean decline of 8% of predicted value, equivalent to 3.8 mL/kg/min).

CONCLUSION

CPET is feasible with 95% of children and young people achieving technically satisfactory assessments starting from age 7. In this group with relatively mild CF, mean Vo_2peak was normal with no significant correlation between Vo_2peak and FEV₁ or BMI, as markers of disease severity. The majority demonstrated a normal Vo_2peak. However, 71% showed a downward trend on repeat testing 12-18 months later.

Plasma metabolomics in adults with cystic fibrosis during a pulmonary exacerbation: A pilot randomized study of high-dose vitamin D3 administration

BACKGROUND

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a chronic catabolic disease often requiring hospitalization for acute episodes of worsening pulmonary exacerbations. Limited data suggest that vitamin D may have beneficial clinical effects, but the impact of vitamin D on systemic metabolism in this setting is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

We used high-resolution metabolomics (HRM) to assess the impact of baseline vitamin D status and high-dose vitamin D₃ administration on systemic metabolism in adults with CF with an acute pulmonary exacerbation.

DESIGN

Twenty-five hospitalized adults with CF were enrolled in a randomized trial of high-dose vitamin D₃ (250,000IU vitamin D₃ bolus) versus placebo. Age-matched healthy subjects served as a reference group for baseline comparisons. Plasma was analyzed with liquid chromatography/ultra-high resolution mass spectrometry. Using recent HRM bioinformatics and metabolic pathway enrichment methods, we examined associations with baseline vitamin D status (sufficient vs. deficient per serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations) and the 7-day response to vitamin D₃ supplementation.

RESULTS

Several amino acids and lipid metabolites differed between CF and healthy control subjects, indicative of an overall catabolic state. In CF subjects, 343 metabolites differed (P<0.05) by baseline vitamin D status and were enriched within 7 metabolic pathways including fatty acid, amino acid, and carbohydrate metabolism. A total of 316 metabolites, which showed enrichment for 15 metabolic pathways-predominantly representing amino acid pathways-differed between the vitamin D₃- and placebo-treated CF subjects over time (P<0.05). In the placebo group, several tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates increased while several amino acid-related metabolites decreased; in contrast, little change in these metabolites occurred with vitamin D₃ treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Numerous metabolic pathways detected by HRM varied in association with vitamin D status and high-dose vitamin D₃ supplementation in adults with CF experiencing a pulmonary exacerbation. Overall, these pilot data suggest an anti-catabolic effect of high-dose vitamin D₃ in this clinical setting.

Growth deficits in cystic fibrosis mice begin in utero prior to IGF-1 reduction

Growth deficits are common in cystic fibrosis (CF), but their cause is complex, with contributions from exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, pulmonary complications, gastrointestinal obstructions, and endocrine abnormalities. The CF mouse model displays similar growth impairment despite exocrine pancreatic function and in the absence of chronic pulmonary infection. The high incidence of intestinal obstruction in the CF mouse has been suggested to significantly contribute to the observed growth deficits. Previous studies by our group have shown that restoration of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) in the intestinal epithelium prevents intestinal obstruction but does not improve growth. In this study, we further investigate growth deficits in CF and gut-corrected CF mice by assessing insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1). IGF-1 levels were significantly decreased in CF and gut-corrected CF adult mice compared to wildtype littermates and were highly correlated with weight. Interestingly, perinatal IGF-1 levels were not significantly different between CF and wildtype littermates, even though growth deficits in CF mice could be detected late in gestation. Since CFTR has been suggested to play a role in water and nutrient exchange in the placenta through its interaction with aquaporins, we analyzed placental aquaporin expression in late-gestation CF and control littermates. While significant differences were observed in Aquaporin 9 expression in CF placentas in late gestation, there was no evidence of placental fluid exchange differences between CF and control littermates. The results from this study indicate that decreased IGF-1 levels are highly correlated with growth in CF mice, independent of CF intestinal obstruction. However, the perinatal growth deficits that are observed in CF mice are not due to decreased IGF-1 levels or differences in placenta-mediated fluid exchange. Further investigation is necessary to understand the etiology of early growth deficits in CF, as growth has been shown to be a significant factor in disease outcomes.

Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Regulator Modulators: Implications for the Management of Depression and Anxiety in Cystic Fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) are at high risk for depression and anxiety, which are associated with worse medical outcomes. Novel therapies for CF hold great promise for improving physical health, but the effects of these therapies on mental health remain poorly understood.

OBJECTIVE

This review aims to familiarize psychiatrists with the potential effect of novel CF therapies on depression and anxiety.

METHODS

We discuss novel therapies that directly target the mutant CF protein, the CF transmembrane regulator (CFTR), which are called CFTR modulators. We summarize depression and anxiety screening and treatment guidelines under implementation in accredited CF centers. Case vignettes highlight the complexities of caring for individuals with CF with comorbid depression and anxiety, including patients experiencing worsening depression and anxiety proximate to initiation of CFTR modulator therapy, and management of drug-drug interactions.

CONCLUSIONS

Although CFTR modulator therapies provide hope for improving clinical outcomes, worsening depression and anxiety occurs in some patients when starting these novel agents. This phenomenon may be multifactorial, with hypothesized contributions from CFTR modulator-psychotropic medication interactions, direct effects of CFTR modulators on central nervous system function, the psychologic effect of starting a potentially life-altering drug, and typical triggers of depression and anxiety such as stress, pain, and inflammation. The medical and psychiatric complexity of many individuals with CF warrants more direct involvement of mental health specialists on the multidisciplinary CF team. Inclusion of mental health variables in patients with CF registries will facilitate further examination at an epidemiologic level.

Lumacaftor/Ivacaftor in Patients Aged 6-11 Years with Cystic Fibrosis and Homozygous for F508del-CFTR

RATIONALE

Combination lumacaftor/ivacaftor has been shown to improve lung function and other endpoints in patients aged 12 years and older with cystic fibrosis and homozygous for F508del-CFTR, but it has not been assessed in younger patients.

OBJECTIVES

In this open-label phase III trial, we evaluated the safety, tolerability, pharmacodynamics, and efficacy of lumacaftor/ivacaftor combination therapy in patients aged 6-11 years with cystic fibrosis who were homozygous for F508del-CFTR.

METHODS

Patients (N = 58) received 200 mg lumacaftor/250 mg ivacaftor orally every 12 hours for 24 weeks in addition to their existing cystic fibrosis medications.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Lumacaftor/ivacaftor was well tolerated; the safety profile was generally similar to that observed in larger lumacaftor/ivacaftor trials with older patients. Four patients discontinued (two because of drug-related adverse events: elevated liver transaminases, n = 1; rash, n = 1). No safety concerns were associated with spirometry. No significant changes in percent predicted FEV1 were observed (change from baseline at Week 24, +2.5 percentage points; 95% confidence interval [CI], -0.2 to 5.2; P = 0.0671). At Week 24, significant improvements from baseline were observed in sweat chloride (-24.8 mmol/L; 95% CI, -29.1 to -20.5; P < 0.0001), body mass index z score (+0.15; 95% CI, 0.08 to 0.22; P < 0.0001), Cystic Fibrosis Questionnaire-Revised respiratory domain score (+5.4; 95% CI, 1.4 to 9.4; P = 0.0085), and lung clearance index based on lung volume turnover required to reach 2.5% of starting N2 concentration (-0.88; 95% CI, -1.40 to -0.37; P = 0.0018).

CONCLUSIONS

Lumacaftor/ivacaftor was well tolerated in this young population; no new safety concerns were identified. Improvements in lung clearance index, sweat chloride, nutritional status, and health-related quality of life were observed after 24 weeks of treatment. Clinical trial registered with www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01897233).

Impact of CFTR Modulation on Intestinal pH, Motility, and Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Cystic Fibrosis and the G551D Mutation

Objectives:

A defect in bicarbonate secretion contributes to the pathophysiology of gastrointestinal complications in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF). We measured gastrointestinal pH, clinical outcomes, and intestinal transit profiles in patients with the G551D mutation before and after treatment with ivacaftor, a CF transmembrane regulator channel (CFTR) potentiator.

Methods:

Observational studies of ivacaftor effectiveness were conducted in the United States and Canada. A subset of subjects ingested a wireless motility capsule (n=10) that measures in vivo pH, both before therapy with ivacaftor and 1 month after treatment; values obtained were compared for mean pH and area under the pH curve, and regional intestinal motility. We also queried subjects about abdominal pain and recorded body weight before and after treatment.

Results:

One month after administering ivacaftor, a significant increase in mean pH was observed after gastric emptying (P<0.05). Area under the pH curve analyses indicate increased bicarbonate mass (P<0.05 for select 5 min intervals and all segments >30 min); mean weight gain was 1.1 kg (P=0.08). No difference in abdominal pain or regional transit times was seen.

Conclusions:

CFTR modulation improves the proximal small intestinal pH profile in patients with the G551D CFTR mutation and we observed clinically relevant, contemporaneous weight gain, although it did not reach statistical significance. These data provide in vivo evidence that CFTR is an important regulator of bicarbonate secretion, which may be a translational link between CFTR function and clinical improvement.

Dietary intake and lipid profile in children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis

BACKGROUND

Cystic fibrosis (CF) patients are advised to derive 35% of their daily energy intake from dietary fat. Whether this high fat intake is associated with dyslipidaemia is unknown. We described the lipid profile and dietary intake in paediatric patients with CF.

METHODS

110 fasting lipid concentrations of 110 Dutch patients with CF were studied, along with 86 measurements of dietary intake. For the total group and for boys and girls separately, the lipid profile and the dietary intake were investigated. The cross-sectional relationship between the lipid concentrations and dietary intake was determined.

RESULTS

The mean dietary fat intake was ≥35% of the total energy intake, along with a considerable consumption of saturated fat. We found lower concentrations of cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and increased concentrations of triglyceride and triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratios. Lipid concentrations were not associated with dietary fat intake.

CONCLUSION

This study lacks variation in dietary fat intake to exclude an effect on lipid concentrations as the distribution of dietary fat intake remained constant at a high level. Elevated triglyceride concentrations and triglyceride to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratios suggest an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Any negative consequences of a high dietary fat intake on the overall lipid profile later in life cannot be excluded.

Update of literature from cystic fibrosis registries 2012-2015. Part 6: Epidemiology, nutrition and complications

Patient registries provide useful information to afford more knowledge on rare diseases like Cystic Fibrosis (CF). Twenty-two studies originating from national CF registries, focusing on demographics, survival, genetics, nutritional status, and non-pulmonary complications, were published between December 2011 and March 2015. The purpose of this review article is to examine these reports, aiming attention to the clinical characteristics of CF patients included in the registries, current, and estimated future epidemiological data, the role of gender gap, the increasing survival in different countries. Some studies offer insights into pubertal growth and non-pulmonary complications, such as liver disease, nephropathy, and cancer. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2017;52:390-398. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Dynamics of Disease Progression and Gastrostomy Tube Placement in Children and Adolescents with Cystic Fibrosis: Application of Joint Models for Longitudinal and Time-to-Event Data

BACKGROUND

Previous small-sample studies have examined the effect of gastrostomy (g-) tube placement on weight, height, and lung function in adolescent patients with cystic fibrosis (CF), but there are no RCTs to date reporting efficacy. The goal of this study was to implement a dynamic prediction model to 1) understand the role of rapid lung function decline in g-tube placement in real-world clinical settings; 2) provide a prognostic tool with the potential to aid clinicians in optimizing the timing of g-tube placement, in relation to rate of lung function decline and current nutrition status.

METHODS

A dynamic prediction model was developed, utilizing data on patients 6-21 years of age from the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Patient Registry (1997-2013). A joint model was implemented, which coupled a semiparametric mixed model to characterize rapid lung function decline with a time-to-event model to identify risk factors for g-tube initiation.

RESULTS

The 4,034 individuals (21.3%) who underwent g-tube placement during adolescence or young adulthood had poorer nutrition and lung function at baseline and initially had increased rates of pancreatic enzyme use, infection and gastroesophageal reflux disease, compared to those who did not receive g-tubes; these associations changed over follow up. Rapid lung function decline was associated with increased risk of g-tube supplementation.

CONCLUSIONS

By jointly modeling longitudinal patterns of lung function decline with g-tube delivery, it is possible to construct prognostic aids to evaluate treatment delivery in relation to the onset of rapid lung function decline and other important clinical markers. These algorithms have the potential to enable more effective monitoring of disease progression and promote more timely treatment delivery.

Validation of a Nutrition Screening Tool for Pediatric Patients with Cystic Fibrosis

BACKGROUND

In cystic fibrosis (CF), nutrition diagnosis is of critical relevance because the early identification of nutrition-related compromise enables early, adequate intervention and, consequently, influences patient prognosis. Up to now, there has not been a validated nutrition screening tool that takes into consideration clinical variables.

OBJECTIVE

To validate a specific nutritional risk screening tool for patients with CF based on clinical variables, anthropometric parameters, and dietary intake.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional study. The nutrition screening tool was compared with a risk screening tool proposed by McDonald and the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation criteria.

PARTICIPANTS/SETTING

Patients aged 6 to 18 years, with a diagnosis of CF confirmed by two determinations of elevated chloride level in sweat (sweat test) and/or by identification of two CF-associated genetic mutations who were receiving follow-up care through the outpatient clinic of a Cystic Fibrosis Treatment Center.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Earlier identification of nutritional risk in CF patients aged 6 to 18 years when a new screening tool was applied.

STATISTICAL ANALYSES PERFORMED

Agreement among the tested methods was assessed by means of the kappa coefficient for categorical variables. Sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy values were calculated. The significance level was set at 5% (P<0.05). Statistical analyses were carried out in PASW Statistics for Windows version 18.0 (2009, SPSS Inc).

RESULTS

Eighty-two patients (49% men, aged 6 to 18 years) were enrolled in the study. The agreement between the proposed screening tool and the tool for screening nutritional risk for CF by the McDonald method was good (κ=0.804; P<0.001) and the sensitivity and specificity was 85% and 95%, respectively. Agreement with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation criteria was lower (κ=0.418; P<0.001), and the sensitivity and specificity were both 72%.

CONCLUSIONS

The proposed screening tool with defined clinical variables promotes earlier identification of nutritional risk in pediatric patients with CF.

Macronutrient intake in preschoolers with cystic fibrosis and the relationship between macronutrients and growth

BACKGROUND

Adequate nutrition is essential for growth in children with cystic fibrosis (CF). The new CF Foundation Clinical Practice Guidelines bring attention to monitoring macronutrient intake as well as total energy.

METHODS

Dietary intake of 75 preschool children with CF and pancreatic insufficiency was examined and compared to the Clinical Practice Guidelines. Regression analyses examined relationships between macronutrient intake and growth.

RESULTS

Approximately 45% of children met the 110% minimum recommended dietary allowance (RDA) recommendation. Children consumed 35.3% (6.1) of total daily energy intake from fat, 12.7% (1.7) from protein, and 52.0% (6.1) from carbohydrates. Percent energy from protein was associated with height growth.

CONCLUSIONS

Many preschoolers with CF are not meeting nutrition benchmarks for total energy and fat. To optimize nutrition early, dietary monitoring with frequent individualized feedback is needed. Optimizing intake of macronutrients that promote growth, especially fat and protein, should be a primary clinical target.

A Quality Improvement Initiative to Improve Patient Adherence to Vitamin Supplementation in Cystic Fibrosis

OBJECTIVES

Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) and pancreatic insufficiency are prescribed fat-soluble vitamins, although compliance remains low. Our objective was to identify patient and caregiver knowledge deficits regarding vitamin supplementation, provide targeted education, and examine serum vitamin levels pre-and posteducation.

METHODS

This prospective quality improvement study involved 118 patients. A vitamin knowledge survey was given to patients/caregivers during a clinic visit, education was provided targeting knowledge deficits, and the survey was re-administered at the next clinic visit. Serum vitamin levels were collected at pre- and postsurvey.

RESULTS

Results showed significant pre-post increases for patient and caregiver knowledge scores, and significant decreases in self-reported nonadherence to vitamin use and number of reported barriers affecting adherence. A significant change in vitamin E level to therapeutic range post-education was demonstrated.

CONCLUSIONS

Our brief, targeted educational interventions regarding vitamin supplementation showed utility in a routine clinic setting.

Growth in Prepubertal Children With Cystic Fibrosis Treated With Ivacaftor

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is known for its impact on the lung and pancreas of individuals; however, impaired growth is also a common complication. We hypothesized that targeting the biological defect in the CF transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein may affect growth outcomes.

METHODS

In this post hoc analysis, we assessed linear growth and weight in 83 children (aged 6-11 years) enrolled in 2 clinical trials, the longitudinal-observation GOAL study and the placebo-controlled ENVISION study, to evaluate the effects of ivacaftor, a CFTR potentiator. We calculated height and weight z scores and height and weight growth velocities (GVs).

RESULTS

In ivacaftor-treated children in GOAL, height and weight z scores increased significantly from baseline to 6 months (increases of 0.1 [P < .05] and 0.26 [P < .0001], respectively); height GV increased significantly from 3 to 6 months (2.10-cm/year increase; P < .01). In ivacaftor-treated children in ENVISION, height and weight z scores increased significantly from baseline to 48 weeks (increases of 0.17 [P < .001] and 0.35 [P < .001], respectively). Height and weight GVs from baseline to 48 weeks were also significantly higher with ivacaftor than with placebo (differences of 1.08 cm/year [P < .05] and 3.11 kg/year [P < .001], respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Ivacaftor treatment in prepubescent children may help to address short stature and altered GV in children with CF; results from these analyses support the existence of an intrinsic defect in the growth of children with CF that may be ameliorated by CFTR modulation.

Contemporary health care for Huntington disease

Providing medical care for people and families affected by Huntington disease (HD) can be a rewarding effort when realistic goals of improved quality of life and optimized functional status are set. Multiple disease symptoms can remit or improve with currently available pharmacologic and behavioral interventions, even though barriers exist that interfere with access to treatment. Connecting expert multidisciplinary teams with community-based care, developing treatment guidelines, and involving the HD family community in quality improvements can achieve an integrated system of health care delivery. Engaging people with HD in high-quality compassionate care will not only improve lives, it will also encourage participation in clinical trials that search for disease-modifying treatments that will reduce or bring the suffering of HD to an end.