Cystic fibrosis (musculoskeletal manifestations)

The musculoskeletal manifestations of cystic fibrosis are uncommon compared to the well known respiratory manifestations.

For general discussion of cystic fibrosis, and a discussion of its other manifestations, please refer to:

• cystic fibrosis (parent article)
  • pulmonary manifestations of cystic fibrosis
  • abdominal manifestations of cystic fibrosis
  • head and neck manifestations of cystic fibrosis

Clinical presentation

Symptoms are non-specific and include joint pain, joint swelling, back pain, and myalgia. These may mimic rheumatic symptoms, however, they do not meet the criteria for rheumatoid arthritis or other connective tissue disorders.

Pathology

Musculoskeletal manifestations of cystic fibrosis include :

• low bone mineral density
• short stature
• kyphosis
• cystic fibrosis arthropathy (~5%)
• hypertrophic osteoarthropathy (~5%)
• finger clubbing

Treatment and prognosis

The severity of the findings increases with the age of the patient as well as the severity of cystic fibrosis.