Cystic fibrosis-related diabetes in childhood

Stephen M P O'Riordan1, Mehul T Dattani, Peter C Hindmarsh

  • 1Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, Clinical and Molecular Genetics Unit, Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, UK. s.oriordan@ich.ucl.ac.uk

Insights

Cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD) is the most common complication, significantly impacting survival. Early detection and management are crucial for improving outcomes in children and adolescents with CFRD.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Endocrinology
  • Pulmonology
  • Metabolic Disorders

Background:

  • Cystic Fibrosis (CF) management has improved survival significantly since the 1950s.
  • Cystic Fibrosis-Related Diabetes (CFRD) is the most prevalent complication, affecting 50% of CF patients by age 30.
  • CFRD negatively impacts survival, increasing morbidity and mortality sixfold.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current literature on CFRD in pediatric populations.
  • To comprehensively report on the incidence, prevalence, and pathophysiology of CFRD.
  • To address survival, prognosis, diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment strategies for CFRD.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature review using Medline and Pubmed databases.
  • Analysis of studies focusing on CFRD in children and adolescents.
  • Synthesis of data on pathophysiology, clinical outcomes, and management.

Main Results:

  • CFRD is often asymptomatic and can be undetected for up to four years.
  • Pathophysiology involves both insulin deficiency and insulin insensitivity.
  • CFRD is associated with significantly reduced survival rates.

Conclusions:

  • CFRD is a critical complication requiring vigilant monitoring and management in pediatric CF patients.
  • Improved understanding of CFRD pathophysiology can guide therapeutic interventions.
  • Proactive diagnosis and treatment are essential for enhancing long-term outcomes in CFRD.

Related Concept Videos

Cystic Fibrosis: Pathogenesis01:23

Cystic Fibrosis: Pathogenesis

Cystic fibrosis (CF), an autosomal recessive disorder, significantly affects the function of exocrine glands. This genetically inherited disease is characterized by the production of thick and sticky mucus, which can severely affect various organs and systems in the body.
CF is primarily caused by a genetic mutation in a chromosome 7 gene coding for the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. The most common gene mutation leading to CF is the ΔF508 mutation, but...
Type I Diabetes I: Introduction01:12

Type I Diabetes I: Introduction

Type 1 diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by an absolute deficiency of insulin resulting from the autoimmune destruction of pancreatic β-cells. Although it can occur at any age, it is most commonly diagnosed in childhood, adolescence, or early adulthood. The loss of insulin production impairs cellular glucose uptake, resulting in persistent hyperglycemia and necessitating lifelong insulin therapy.Autoimmune Destruction of β-CellsThe hallmark of type 1 diabetes is an...
Type II Diabetes I: Introduction01:26

Type II Diabetes I: Introduction

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by insulin resistance, in which target tissues such as the liver, muscle, and adipose tissue respond poorly to insulin. It is also associated with inadequate compensatory insulin secretion, where pancreatic β-cells fail to produce sufficient insulin. Together, these abnormalities lead to persistent hyperglycemia.EtiologyT2DM develops through a complex interaction of genetic predisposition and environmental or...
Pathophysiology of Diabetes01:20

Pathophysiology of Diabetes

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia. The four categories of diabetes are type 1 diabetes, type 2 diabetes, other specific types of diabetes, and gestational diabetes.
Type 1 diabetes is characterized by autoimmune-mediated destruction of pancreatic β cells, with environmental factors potentially triggering this process in genetically susceptible individuals. Despite many not having a family history, certain genes increase susceptibility, suggesting a...
Type I Diabetes II: Pathophysiology01:26

Type I Diabetes II: Pathophysiology

Type 1 diabetes mellitus arises from an immune-mediated destruction of pancreatic β-cells, resulting in an absolute deficiency of insulin. This process develops in genetically susceptible individuals when autoimmunity, environmental exposures, and immunologic dysregulation converge to trigger a targeted attack on the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. The β-cells are located within the islets of Langerhans and are essential for regulating blood glucose by facilitating cellular uptake of...
Cystic Fibrosis: Management01:24

Cystic Fibrosis: Management

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive disorder that predominantly affects individuals of Northern European descent, occurring at a rate of 1 in 3500. It is caused by a genetic mutation in a gene on chromosome 7, most commonly the ΔF508 mutation, that codes for the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein. This results in thicker mucus secretions and obstruction pathologies in multiple organs, including the lungs and sinuses.
Sinus disease and chronic sinusitis...