Cystic Fibrosis-Associated Gastrointestinal Disease in Neonates

Abstract

See Bonus NeoBriefs videos and downloadable teaching slides Gastrointestinal complications of cystic fibrosis (CF) are often the earliest manifestations of disease and contribute to significant morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis of CF is paramount, as early intervention has been associated with improved long-term pulmonary and nutritional outcomes. In this review, we describe common gastrointestinal, pancreatic, hepatic, and nutritional manifestations of CF in neonates to aid clinicians in diagnosing and managing the earliest gastrointestinal manifestations of CF. Furthermore, we discuss how the use of CFTR-targeted therapies by pregnant and/or breastfeeding persons may affect CF diagnosis in newborns and their potential impact on halting or reversing CF disease progression.