Cystic fibrosis in adults: diagnosis and management.

Once regarded as a disease of infants and young children, cystic fibrosis now also must be considered a disease of adolescents and young adults. Disease complications and management, including hemoptysis, pneumothorax, sinusitis, pancreatic deficiency, and intestinal obstruction, are discussed in this review. In addition, a practical approach to the clinical evaluation, follow-up, and treatment of the older cystic fibrosis patient is presented for the physician who has not had extensive experience in managing these patients. Current research in identifying the CF gene, basic defect, and the use of heart-lung transplants is discussed.