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Published on: August 29, 2025
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.
Abstract:
Since the early 1990s the management of children with cystic fibrosis (CF) has come a long way and advances in both nutritional and medical care have resulted in a median age of survival of 30-35 years, as compared with a life expectancy of <1 year in the 1950s. The first definitive reports of glucose intolerance or diabetes in CF are from 1955. The combination of CF and related diabetes (CFRD) has a negative impact on survival. CFRD is now the most common complication of CF (50% of the CF patients will develop diabetes by the age of 30 years), and is associated with a 6-fold increase in morbidity and mortality. CFRD is usually asymptomatic and can remain undetected for up to 4 years prior to diagnosis. The objective of this report was to review the current literature (Medline and Pubmed searches) on CFRD in children and adolescents and provide a comprehensive report of incidence, prevalence and pathophysiology of insulin deficiency and insulin insensitivity. Along with survival and prognosis in CFRD the current management strategies in the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of CFRD will also be addressed.
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