Infections due to decreased white blood cell count phagocystosis.

• Phagocystosis is the ability to encourage white blood cells to destroy bacteria.

Increased viscosity of mucus secretions with hyperglycemia and dehydration.

• Dehydration is caused by the body trying to flush the excess blood glucose out in the urine.

Increased protein catabolism with CF and diabetes mellitus.

• Protein catabolism is the breakdown of proteins into amino acids and simple derivative compounds, for transport into the cell.

Increased fatigue with poorly controlled diabetes mellitus.

• Insulin Deficiency
  • Insulin is an anabolic hormone which promotes conservation of body protein, fat and carbohydrate stores.
• Malnutrition and protein catabolism are clearly associated with death in CF.