What is the definition or description of: cystic fibrosis?

Genetic disorder: Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder involving lungs & digestive tract, causing recurrent lung infections due to thick inspissated mucus & poor growth in majority of patients due to malabsorption. Treatment involves inhaled respiratory therapies to prevent lung disease & pancreatic enzymes to enable absorption of nutrients. Average life expectancy is near 40 years, new therapies being developed.

Genetic condition: Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease in which certain cellular channels in the human body do not function properly, leading to thickened secretions in the lungs, the gastrointestinal tract and other areas of the body. The disease can have variable severity, mostly based on the type of mutation the patient has. Inhaled medications, vitamins, pancreatic enzymes are the main medication used.