cystic fibrosis
noun Pathology.
a hereditary chronic disease of the exocrine glands, characterized by the production of viscid mucus that obstructs the pancreatic ducts and bronchi, leading to infection and fibrosis.
Origin of cystic fibrosis
First recorded in 1950–55
Words nearby cystic fibrosis
British Dictionary definitions for cystic fibrosis
cystic fibrosis
noun
an inheritable disease of the exocrine glands, controlled by a recessive gene: affected children inherit defective alleles from both parents. It is characterized by chronic infection of the respiratory tract and by pancreatic insufficiency
Medical definitions for cystic fibrosis
cystic fibrosis
n.
A hereditary metabolic disorder of the exocrine glands, usually developing during early childhood and affecting mainly the pancreas, respiratory system, and sweat glands. It is marked by the production of abnormally viscous mucus by the affected glands, usually resulting in chronic respiratory infections and impaired pancreatic function.
Clarke-Hadfield syndrome fibrocystic disease of pancreas mucoviscidosis
Scientific definitions for cystic fibrosis
cystic fibrosis
[ sĭs′tĭk fī-brō′sĭs ]
An inherited disorder of the exocrine glands, usually developing during early childhood and affecting mainly the pancreas, respiratory system, and sweat glands. It is marked by the production of abnormally thick mucus by the affected glands, usually resulting in chronic respiratory infections and impaired pancreatic function.
Cultural definitions for cystic fibrosis
cystic fibrosis
[ (sis-tik feye-broh-sis) ]
A congenital and chronic disease that affects certain glands in the body, particularly the sweat glands, the pancreas, and the glands in the mucous membranes of the respiratory system. Cystic fibrosis causes recurring respiratory disorders (see respiration) and interferes with the production of enzymes by the pancreas.