What is a common first sign of cystic fibrosis in infants?

Failure to thrive is a common first sign of cystic fibrosis in infants because it often reflects the underlying issues associated with the condition, primarily related to malabsorption and nutritional deficiencies. In cystic fibrosis, the thick mucus can obstruct the pancreas, leading to the improper digestion and absorption of nutrients. This results in inadequate weight gain and growth in infants, leading to the clinical manifestation of failure to thrive.

While persistent cough, frequent respiratory infections, and tooth decay can also be seen in cystic fibrosis patients, these symptoms typically develop later as the disease progresses. Infants may show early signs of nutritional challenges and growth concerns before respiratory issues become prominent. Thus, failure to thrive serves as an early indicator for healthcare providers to consider cystic fibrosis when evaluating an infant’s growth and development.