Treatment of cystic fibrosis in the adult.

There has been a dramatic increase in the life expectancy of patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) over the last 20 years. CF used to be fatal in childhood but now, over a third of the patients are adults. The reasons for improved survival are multi-factorial. The disease affects most systems of the body although the majority of morbidity and mortality is due to lung disease. As in any life-threatening disease, in addition to medical issues, there are many psychosocial and spiritual issues, which need attention. Transition from paediatric to adult care needs to be handled very sensitively. Arranging a balanced and reliable system of care - out-patient, in-patient and home care - is essential to ensure the patient's survival and quality of life is as good as possible. Copyright 2000 S. Karger AG, Basel