Cystic fibrosis (head and neck manifestations)

The head and neck manifestations of cystic fibrosis are common compared to the well-known respiratory manifestations. 

For general discussion of cystic fibrosis, and a discussion of its other manifestations, please refer to:

• cystic fibrosis (parent article)
  • pulmonary manifestations of cystic fibrosis
  • abdominal manifestations of cystic fibrosis
  • musculoskeletal manifestations of cystic fibrosis

Clinical presentation

Symptoms are not specific for cystic fibrosis and include nasal obstruction, rhinorrhea and sinusitis. These symptoms, however, may be the first presentation of the disease.

Pathology

Head and neck manifestations of cystic fibrosis include ¹:

• chronic sinusitis
• nasal polyposis
• chronic otitis media and middle ear effusion
  • higher prevalence in adults with cystic fibrosis compared to the general population but not children