Which of the following is a common complication seen in cystic fibrosis?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Hyperglycemia
• C. Hypothyroidism
• D. Recurrent respiratory infections

Answer: (D)

In cystic fibrosis, thick, sticky mucus in the airways impairs mucociliary clearance, creating an environment where bacteria can thrive. This leads to chronic colonization and recurrent respiratory infections, which are the most common and impactful complication because they drive ongoing inflammation and progressive lung damage like bronchiectasis. Pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa are frequently involved and can establish persistent infection early in life, contributing to a cycle of cough, sputum production, and more hospitalizations.

While CF can affect other organs—pancreatic insufficiency causing malabsorption and, over time, CF-related diabetes, for example—pulmonary infections occur far more consistently and are the hallmark complication in many patients. Hypertension or hypothyroidism are not characteristic features of CF.