Conditions, Diagnostics & Treatments

• Bronchiectasis occurs when there’s lung scarring from an infection or long-lasting inflammation.
• Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder causing the lungs and other organs to absorb too much sodium and water. In some cases, cystic fibrosis develops in adulthood and may affect other organs, such as the pancreas.
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an inflammatory lung disease causing emphysema, chronic bronchitis and airflow blockages.  
• Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis develops when lung scarring occurs for no known reason.

Evaluations start with a detailed conversation about how symptoms are affecting you or your child. We then perform a physical exam and coordinate tests enabling us to quickly make an accurate diagnosis.

The first sign of cystic fibrosis is often a positive result on a newborn screening test for the condition. Bronchiectasis symptoms include a persistent cough. Testing helps us confirm the diagnosis and determine the best treatments for your child.

Evaluations may include:

• Blood tests
• Cardiopulmonary exercise study
• Genetic testing
• Imaging studies, including X-ray, ultrasound or CT scan
• Lung biopsy
• Mental health screening (in older children)
• Pulmonary function testing
• Sputum cultures

Adults with cystic fibrosis often receive their diagnosis in childhood. Periodically repeating some of these tests helps determine whether treatments are working as they should.

Some adults do not experience cystic fibrosis symptoms until later in life. In some cases, the results of standard assessments, like a pulmonary function test, come back normal. We take time to learn about your symptoms and order advanced tests when necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Our multidisciplinary approach means multiple specialists work together to tailor therapies to your needs. We offer advanced options that are not widely available, including immunomodulators (CFTR modulator therapies). These medications correct malfunctioning proteins that cause cystic fibrosis symptoms.

Additional treatments for adults and children include:

• Airway clearance therapies
• Fertility counseling
• Customized exercise programs
• Inpatient and outpatient treatments for infections
• Lifestyle modifications, such as regular handwashing or eliminating second-hand smoke exposure
• Nutrition counseling
• Other medications as necessary