Abdominal ultrasound findings in adult patients with cystic fibrosis

Introduction and aims: Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disease whose gastrointestinal compromise mainly involves the pancreas, bile ducts, and liver. Our aim was to analyze abdominal ultrasound findings.

Methods: A retrospective, descriptive study was conducted on adults (patients ≥ 16 years of age) diagnosed with CF, within the time frame of 2006-2019. Clinical and genetic parameters, body mass index, forced expiratory volume in one second, pancreatic insufficiency, CF-related diabetes, cirrhosis secondary to CF, and abdominal ultrasound images were analyzed.

Results: Seventy patients, 39 of whom were men (55.8%), had a mean age of 27 years and a mean body mass index of 21.3 ± 2.8 kg/m² (r: 17-30.9). Forty-seven (67.1%) presented with pancreatic insufficiency, 6 (8.5%) with cirrhosis secondary to CF, and 21 (30%) had CF-related diabetes. Median forced expiratory volume in one second was 47% and the F508del mutation was found in 56.1%. Images of the pancreas: no pathologic findings in 49 (70%), increased echogenicity in 18 (25.7%), and cysts in 3 (4.3%). Gallbladder images: microgallbladder in 3 (4.2%), biliary sludge in 2 (2.8%), gallstones in 7 (10%), and a history of cholecystectomy in 4 (5.8%). Liver and spleen images: no pathologic findings in 47 (67.2%), homogeneous hepatomegaly with splenomegaly in 2 (2.8%), a heterogeneous pattern of the parenchyma in 11 (15.8%), increased echogenicity in 4 (5.7%), and heterogeneous echo patterns, lobulated liver contour, and splenomegaly in 6 (8.5%).

Conclusion: Abdominal ultrasound is a safe, low-cost technique that enables the identification of some degree of chronic liver and pancreatic diseases, improving the approach and follow-up decisions in adult patients with CF.