In cystic fibrosis, thick, viscous secretions obstruct airways and promote chronic infection and inflammation. This statement best describes which aspect of CF pathology?

• A. Thick, viscous secretions obstruct airways and promote chronic infection and inflammation
• B. Thin secretions that reduce infection risk
• C. Thick secretions obstruct mucus clearance
• D. No airway clearance problem

Answer: (A)

In cystic fibrosis, the primary issue is thick, sticky mucus that clogs the airways. This plugs airways and impairs mucociliary clearance, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. The resulting repeated infections provoke a strong inflammatory response that drives ongoing lung damage. The statement captures both the mucus obstruction and the subsequent chronic infection and inflammation, which together define CF lung pathology. The other options describe thin secretions or omit the infectious/inflammatory consequences, or deny airway clearance problems, which don’t fit CF.