Psychiatric Technician Practice Exam

Which inherited disorder affects exocrine glands leading to respiratory issues and gastrointestinal symptoms?

1. Asthma

2. Cystic Fibrosis

3. Congenital heart disease

4. Diabetes

The correct answer is: Cystic Fibrosis

Cystic Fibrosis is an inherited disorder characterized by the production of thick and sticky mucus that affects various exocrine glands in the body, particularly those in the lungs and digestive system. This condition leads to significant respiratory issues, such as frequent lung infections and difficulty breathing, as the mucus obstructs the airways. Additionally, in the gastrointestinal tract, it can result in malabsorption of nutrients, causing issues like poor growth and weight gain difficulties, abdominal pain, and intestinal blockages. The genetic basis of cystic fibrosis involves mutations in the CFTR gene, which is responsible for coding a protein that helps regulate the movement of salt and water in and out of cells. When this protein is defective, it disrupts normal secretions in the organs affected, establishing a cycle of respiratory and digestive complications. While asthma, congenital heart disease, and diabetes are distinct health issues, they do not primarily involve the dysfunction of exocrine glands leading to the specific set of respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms observed in cystic fibrosis.