Cystic fibrosis: A medical overview and critique of the psychological literature

Abstract

A description of cystic fibrosis (CF) symptoms, complications, and their diagnosis is followed by an overview of medical and nonmedical treatment. Particular attention is given to the fact that medical treatment is purely palliative and mostly restricted to the physical complications. Prognosis, methods for prevention, and early detection are also discussed. The psychological effects of the disease are examined in light of the anecdotal literature and research concerning the impact of the disease on the patient and family. It is noted that much of this research has been subjective and methodologically weak and suggestions for improvements are offered. Issues of growing concern for psychology and medicine in treating the fibrocystic patient are discussed, and on the basis of evidence that the life expectancy of CF patients is progressively increasing, it is concluded that psychologists will play an ever increasing role in the lives of both patients and families. Suggestions from the area of health care psychology are presented for both psychological treatment and research.