Cystic fibrosis is an inherited disorder affecting exocrine glands, causing thick secretions in multiple organ systems; which organs are specifically mentioned as affected?

• A. Lungs and pancreas
• B. Liver and kidneys
• C. Heart and brain
• D. Skin and bones

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that cystic fibrosis causes thick, sticky secretions in exocrine glands, which most characteristically affect the lungs and the pancreas. In the lungs, the sticky mucus blocks airways, leading to chronic coughing, wheezing, and frequent infections. In the pancreas, duct blockage prevents digestive enzymes from reaching the intestine, resulting in malabsorption and poor weight gain. These two organs—lungs and pancreas—are the classic sites emphasized for exocrine gland involvement in CF. While the liver can be affected in some cases, it is not the primary pair described for this condition, and other organs like the heart, brain, skin, or bones are not the main targets of the typical CF exocrine-gland description.