In CF, which therapy is used for pancreatic insufficiency?

In CF, which therapy is used for pancreatic insufficiency?

• A. Pancreatic enzyme replacement
• B. Inhaled bronchodilators
• C. Antibiotics only
• D. Vitamin C supplementation only

Answer: (A)

Pancreatic enzyme replacement is used because cystic fibrosis often leads to pancreatic insufficiency, where the pancreas can’t deliver enough digestive enzymes, especially lipase, to the gut. Replacing these enzymes with pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy provides the missing enzymes needed for fat, protein, and carbohydrate digestion. This improves fat absorption, reduces steatorrhea, and supports weight gain and growth, which are key health goals in CF. It’s taken with meals and snacks, and dosing is adjusted based on age, weight, and the fat content of the meal. Other options don’t address the core issue: inhaled bronchodilators help airway symptoms, antibiotics treat infections, and vitamins alone don’t fix the underlying enzyme deficiency (though fat-soluble vitamins may be needed as part of overall CF nutrition).

Pancreatic enzyme replacement is used because cystic fibrosis often leads to pancreatic insufficiency, where the pancreas can’t deliver enough digestive enzymes, especially lipase, to the gut. Replacing these enzymes with pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy provides the missing enzymes needed for fat, protein, and carbohydrate digestion. This improves fat absorption, reduces steatorrhea, and supports weight gain and growth, which are key health goals in CF. It’s taken with meals and snacks, and dosing is adjusted based on age, weight, and the fat content of the meal. Other options don’t address the core issue: inhaled bronchodilators help airway symptoms, antibiotics treat infections, and vitamins alone don’t fix the underlying enzyme deficiency (though fat-soluble vitamins may be needed as part of overall CF nutrition).