As a consequence, chloride ions build up in the cells of the lungs and other organs. Water stays inside the cells to dilute the chloride rather than being drawn out of the cells by normal chloride movement and the normal secretions of the organs thicken. The disease also causes the sweat glands to secrete excessive salt, causing heat prostration in hot weather. Medical problems include nasal polyps and sinus disease, repeated respiratory infections, infertility, liver disease, and diabetes.
Diagnosis is confirmed by a sweat test or measurement of transmembrane potential.
Identification of the genes has also made tests for genetic screening and diagnosis possible. Evolutionary biologists have suggested that the gene, which must be inherited from both parents to cause the disorder, affords carriers some protection against cholera , a disease that kills through profound loss of fluids. Listing from Electric Library , a pay service. Copyright 2001 Infonautics Corporation . All rights reserved.