MRCP UK EXAMINATIONS

Detailed explanation-1: -In cystic fibrosis, the airways fill with thick, sticky mucus, making it difficult to breathe. The thick mucus is also an ideal breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disorder that causes severe damage to the lungs, digestive system and other organs in the body.

Detailed explanation-2: -An infection can make mucus thicker and stickier. Infections also lead to inflammation in the mucous membranes that line the nose and the rest of your airway. This can cause certain airway glands to make more mucus. That mucus can get thick with bacteria and cells that arrive to fight the infection.

Detailed explanation-3: -CF mucus is often described as more solid and having a “flake” form. In addition, it has a higher concentration of proteins called mucins. Mucins make up the main component of mucus and are responsible for the gel-consistency of mucus.

Detailed explanation-4: -A sputum culture can help identify specific causes of infections in the lungs and airways. Such infections can lead to coughing that produces yellow, greenish, or blood-tinged sputum, in addition to fever and difficulty breathing.