Treatment of pulmonary exacerbations in cystic fibrosis

Ng, Christabella; Nadig, Tejaswi; Smyth, Alan R.; Flume, Patrick

Abstract

Purpose of review

This review will discuss the challenges of defining a pulmonary exacerbations in cystic fibrosis and the key pathogens, which contribute. It will discuss the treatment options currently available and the importance of preventing pulmonary exacerbations.

Recent findings

The basis for treatment of pulmonary exacerbations remains unchanged over the past 15 years and whilst there have been trials exploring alternative antibiotics, there has been little change. However, there are ongoing studies that are expected to establish a platform for identifying best practices. Chronic cystic fibrosis therapies have been shown to reduce pulmonary exacerbations. In the era of new CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator) modulator therapies, the number of pulmonary exacerbations are expected to be even fewer. However, it is unclear whether the other chronic therapies can be discontinued without losing their benefits in reducing exacerbations.

Summary

Although there is no universal definition of a pulmonary exacerbation in cystic fibrosis, proposed definitions have many similarities. We have outlined the current recommendations for treatment of pulmonary exacerbations, including the duration and location of treatments. We have also summarized the key therapies used for prevention of pulmonary exacerbations in cystic fibrosis.

Citation

Ng, C., Nadig, T., Smyth, A. R., & Flume, P. (2020). Treatment of pulmonary exacerbations in cystic fibrosis. Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine, 26(6), 679-684. https://doi.org/10.1097/mcp.0000000000000730

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Aug 25, 2020
• Online Publication Date: Sep 2, 2020
• Publication Date: Nov 1, 2020
• Deposit Date: Oct 7, 2020
• Publicly Available Date: Sep 3, 2021
• Journal: Current Opinion in Pulmonary Medicine
• Print ISSN: 1070-5287
• Publisher: Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 26
• Issue: 6
• Pages: 679-684
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1097/mcp.0000000000000730
• Keywords: cystic fibrosis, pulmonary exacerbations, treatment
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/4945073
• Publisher URL: https://journals.lww.com/co-pulmonarymedicine/Abstract/2020/11000/Treatment_of_pulmonary_exacerbations_in_cystic.12.aspx