Lung transplantation for cystic fibrosis: an update

Abstract

ABSTRACTToday cystic fibrosis (CF) patients are surviving longer but ultimately the lung disease will progress despite new treatments. Lung transplantation, a life saving procedure, initially was not offered to CF patients due to their infectious complications and complications related to their multisystem disease. After the first CF patients were transplanted it appeared clear that CF patients had excellent outcomes. Infectious complications with multi-resistant bacteria are still a challenge for some patients which shortens survival in some cases. Better understanding and management of their unique extra pulmonary complications including other organ transplants have opened new horizons in the life of CF patients. Increasing number of CF patients are surviving longer pre and post transplant. Without doubt we will continue to learn as they present with new challenges and conditions unique to their disease. We reviewed the evolution and current status of the main aspects of lung transplant for CF patients.