Evolution of Cystic Fibrosis Care

Cystic fibrosis was first described by physicians caring for children in the early twentieth century. Care for CF became increasingly specialized as medical care in general became specialized. Aggressive treatments and therapeutic breakthroughs have changed the course of the illness from one of death in childhood to one extending into adulthood with good quality of life despite the daily burdens of care. Provision of medical care for these patients is now multidisciplinary, yet must reflect the whole person rather than individual organ systems. The general pediatrician and the family physician have a role to play in the care of these patients because of the unique whole-person perspective practiced in these primary care disciplines.