Cystic Fibrosis Related Gastrointestinal Manifestations - Moving Forward

Presentation, characteristics and management of obstructive intestinal conditions in cystic fibrosis

Objective

Constipation and distal intestinal obstruction syndrome (DIOS) are common gastrointestinal manifestations of cystic fibrosis (CF). The primary aim was to describe the characteristics of constipation and DIOS hospitalisations in a paediatric and adult CF service over a 12-year period. The secondary aims were to determine the proportion of constipation and DIOS presentations which met the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) CF Working Group definitions and to describe management strategies of both conditions.

Method

A retrospective study of children and adults with CF who were admitted with a primary diagnosis of constipation or DIOS between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2022. ESPGHAN definitions for constipation and DIOS were retrospectively applied to all admissions to determine if the primary medical diagnosis met ESPGHAN criteria.

Results

During the 12-year study period, 42 hospitalisations for constipation were recorded in 19 patients, and 33 hospitalisations for DIOS were recorded in 23 patients. 88.10% of constipation episodes met ESPGHAN definitions, compared with 3.0% of DIOS episodes. Constipation and DIOS were primarily treated with polyethylene glycol (PEG). The use of sodium amidotrizoate meglumine enemas was significantly higher in the DIOS group (p=0.045). Those admitted with DIOS were significantly less likely to be recommended a weaning dose of PEG (p=0.018).

Conclusion

Children and adults with CF are more commonly admitted for the management of constipation than DIOS. There is considerable variation in diagnostic and therapeutic practice, and this study highlights the need to enhance the translation and adoption of existing best-practice guidelines.

Diagnosis and Management of Gastrointestinal Manifestations in Children with Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is primarily known for its pulmonary consequences, which are extensively explored in the existing literature. However, it is noteworthy that individuals with CF commonly display gastrointestinal (G-I) manifestations due to the substantial presence of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein in the intestinal tract. Recognized as pivotal nonpulmonary aspects of CF, G-I manifestations exhibit a diverse spectrum. Identifying and effectively managing these manifestations are crucial for sustaining health and influencing the overall quality of life for CF patients. This review aims to synthesize existing knowledge, providing a comprehensive overview of the G-I manifestations associated with CF. Each specific G-I manifestation, along with the diagnostic methodologies and therapeutic approaches, is delineated, encompassing the impact of innovative treatments targeting the fundamental effects of CF on the G-I tract. The findings underscore the imperative for prompt diagnosis and meticulous management of G-I manifestations, necessitating a multidisciplinary team approach for optimal care and enhancement of the quality of life for affected individuals. In conclusion, the authors emphasize the urgency for further clinical studies to establish a more robust evidence base for managing G-I symptoms within the context of this chronic disease. Such endeavors are deemed essential for advancing understanding and refining the clinical care of CF patients with G-I manifestations.

Nutritional management of people living with cystic fibrosis throughout life and disease continuum: Changing times, new challenges

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease caused by mutations in the gene encoding for the ion channel cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). The management of CF disease has evolved in recent decades from treating downstream disease manifestations affecting the airways, the lungs and the gastrointestinal system to addressing the CFTR gene defect. The advent of CFTR modulators, which correct the functionality of the defective CFTR, contributes to reshaping the landscape of CF demographics, prognosis and therapies, including nutritional management. A spectrum of clinical manifestations is emerging within the same patient population where undernutrition and nutritional deficiencies coexist with excessive weight gain and metabolic derangements. Such contrasting presentations challenge current practices, require adjustments to traditional approaches, and involve more individualised interventions. This narrative review examines the current state of knowledge on the nutritional management of people living with cystic fibrosis from early life to adulthood in the era of CFTR modulation.