Why is cystic fibrosis also called 'Pancreatic Cystic Fibrosis' when it affects organs other than the pancreas

Answer 1

While "Barry M" is correct in what he stated, he didn't really address the question, so I'll try to add on.

It is called pancreatic cystic fibrosis because many of the prominent symptoms are manifest early in life as pancreatic dysfunction, though it is truly a systemic disease. In newborns, it is first noticed as digestive issues, such as intestinal blockage or thick stool, which suggests and mimics pancreatic disease. However, as the patient grows older, other systems are affected such as the lungs, sweat glands, reproductive system, and growh in general (because of its effect on insulin secretion). So, even though the systemic manifestations are eventually seen, the earliest ones to appear are those regarding the pancreas, and so the initial label tends to stick.

Answer 2

Cystic Fibrosis of the pancreas was attached to the disease in 1938. The pancreas secretes enzymes into the intestines to aid in the digestion of foods and liquids. However, patients with CF who suffer from pancreatic insufficiency do not secrete enough enzymes to derive proper nutritional benefit from their food. Also, the intestines are lined with thick, sticky mucus, that prevents any secreted enzymes from reaching the food to be digested. Due to the inability to properly digest food, a person with CF produces large, greasy stools, which are lighter in color than normal and have a very foul odor. Patients also may suffer from abdominal cramping. To treat this problem, patients are given supplemental pancreatic enzymes that help them digest their food.

The pancreas also secretes insulin to process sugars. Some people with CF develop a specific type of diabetes called Cystic Fibrosis-Related Diabetes. CF also can result in damage to the liver. In some patients with CF, the bile ducts, which transport bile from the liver to the intestines, become blocked. This condition can result in irreversible liver damage.

As you can see, this isn't just a lung disease and the pancreas is affected greatly by this disorder.