Pediatric Cystic Fibrosis

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Long-Standing Care for Cystic Fibrosis Patients of All Ages

Infants, children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis (CF), and their families receive expert care at the University of Chicago Medicine Cystic Fibrosis Center. Our pediatric and adult cystic fibrosis programs are accredited by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Leading Research Advancements

Our team is actively involved in research to evaluate promising treatments for children with CF. In recent years, we have tested many of the newer inhaled antibiotics, as well as ivacaftor, a new oral medication that can help children and teens who have certain genetic mutations causing CF.

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Why Choose UChicago Medicine for Pediatric Cystic Fibrosis Care

Our center has been treating pediatric patients with cystic fibrosis since 1967, making it one of the oldest in the nation. Our program also is fully accredited by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Our care team works in partnership with families to develop individualized care plans for young people with this inherited lung disease.

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Multidisciplinary Care Teams

Our experts follow a team-based approach to treating infants, children and adolescents with CF. Our team includes:

  • Pediatric pulmonary medicine specialists (pulmonologists)

  • Pediatric endocrinologists and pediatric gastroenterologists, who can help prevent and manage the complications of CF

  • Pediatric nurses specializing in pulmonary (lung) disorders

  • Dietitians, who help manage nutritional problems caused by CF

  • Social workers

  • Respiratory care therapists

  • Genetic counselors, who are available to speak with families about their concerns

Together, these specialists will develop a treatment plan that meets your child's needs.

Comprehensive Inpatient Care

Young patients with CF who require inpatient care are treated at the University of Chicago Medicine Comer Children's Hospital. The hospital was especially designed to provide family-centered care, with large private rooms and in-room sleeping accommodations for parents.

Experts in Associated Conditions

Pediatric specialists at Comer Children's also offer focused treatment for other conditions that can develop in children with CF, such as:

  • Sinus problems
  • Asthma and allergies
  • Nutritional deficiencies
  • Diabetes
  • Digestive and liver problems

Our team works collaboratively to help minimize complications and slow the progression of the disease.

Lung Transplantation Leaders

Some teens and young adults with advanced CF may be candidates for lung transplants. UChicago Medicine is home to some of the most experienced transplant pulmonologists and surgeons in the country. In fact, one of our pulmonologists is considered a pioneer in lung transplantation.

Smooth Transition to Adult Care

The University of Chicago Cystic Fibrosis Center is also home to an Adult Cystic Fibrosis Program that focuses on the unique needs of managing CF in adults. Our goal is to make the transition from pediatric to adult CF care as seamless as possible. Several of our team members work in both the pediatric and adult programs.