Which of the following is associated with cystic fibrosis related lung disease?

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that significantly impacts various organs, with the lungs being especially affected. The defective CFTR gene leads to the production of thick, sticky mucus that obstructs airway passages. This maladaptive mucus accumulation creates an ideal environment for bacterial growth, resulting in recurrent chest infections.

Patients with cystic fibrosis often experience persistent, chronic respiratory infections, particularly with organisms such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and others. These recurrent infections can lead to progressive lung damage, characterized by bronchiectasis, chronic cough, and respiratory failure.

While other options mention conditions that can occur in patients with various pulmonary issues, they are not as directly linked to the pathophysiology of cystic fibrosis-related lung disease as recurrent chest infections are. For instance, ground glass opacities are more commonly associated with interstitial lung disease, and chest wall deformities are not a direct consequence of cystic fibrosis, though they may occur due to overall health decline or other factors. Pneumothorax can happen in various lung conditions, but it is not a primary consequence of cystic fibrosis itself. Therefore, the link between cystic fibrosis and recurrent chest infections is a key factor in understanding the