Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that affects mucus and sweat glands. It causes thick mucus to accumulate in the lungs, pancreas and other organs.

Sweat test: Babies who test positive for cystic fibrosis in the newborn screening or in a prenatal genetic test should have a sweat test performed at a CF Foundation-accredited center, such as MU Health Care’s Pediatric Cystic Fibrosis Center. We can help review your medication list, arrange prescription refills and work with you to obtain prescription renewals or prior authorizations, all in a timely manner. On the weekend or after hours, you can call University Hospital at 573-882-4141 and request the CF doctor on call. If you are sick and think you might need inpatient care, you can call the center at 573-884-2591 from 8 a.m. If a child tests positive for an elevated level of a specific pancreas secretion, the sample’s DNA is tested to see if it has any mutations of the genes commonly associated with cystic fibrosis. The sample is mailed to a state laboratory to be tested for various conditions, including cystic fibrosis. Our team includes doctors and a nurse, dietitian, social worker, respiratory therapist and a pharmacist. It can be diagnosed through a sweat test and genetic testing. A thin needle is used to draw a sample of amniotic fluid for testing. MU Health Care offers treatment for patients of all ages. There is no cure, but improvements in diagnosis and treatment have greatly improved the outlook for people with cystic fibrosis. Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that affects mucus and sweat glands.