Hormonal fluctuations linked to cystic fibrosis exacerbations in women: Study
Epidemiologic studies demonstrate worse outcomes in women with cystic fibrosis (CF) than men. Women are colonized earlier with respiratory pathogens and have increased rates of pulmonary exacerbations after puberty and near ovulation.
The etiology of this disparity is unclear, but sex hormones may contribute to these differences.
There are potentially important fluctuations in inflammatory biomarkers in the lungs that correlate with changes in lung function in women with CF, suggests a recent study.
The study is published in the Annals of the American Thoracic Society.
Melanie Holtrop and colleagues from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, USA sought to explore whether natural hormonal fluctuations and hormonal contraception associate with changes in lung function, respiratory symptoms, or inflammatory markers.
The researchers prospectively followed women with CF who were not on hormonal contraceptives and reported regular menstrual cycles. They captured study visits at points that corresponded with menses, ovulation, and the luteal phase.
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.