How does cystic fibrosis affect the kidney ?

This serious genetic disorder causing extensive damage mainly to the respiratory and digestive systems affects the kidneys as well. Generally, it is perceived that cystic fibrosis spares the kidneys, but there is an increase in incidences where patients of cystic fibrosis (CF) are reporting renal diseases.

Nearly 65% women with cystic fibrosis are likely to develop stress incontinence or urine leakage arising from cough, sneezing, lifting weight and laughing. About 6% of adult patients having CF develop kidney stones and 40% of them will face recurrences.

CF patients suffering from chronic diarrhea often show altered oxalate absorption which may gradually lead to the formation of calcium containing kidney stones. Higher levels of uric acid and reduced levels of citrate in the urine of such patients also favor formation of kidney stones.

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