CYSTIC-FIBROSIS AND COLONIC STRICTURES - A NEW IATROGENIC DISEASE

Excessive dosage of pancreatic enzymes in cystic fibrosis (CF) patient s can be associated with irreversible colonic stricture. Predisposing factors include a young age group, previous intestinal surgery, and pr olonged administration of high-dose lipase products. Prestricture symp toms include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and hematochezia. Pathological signs are ischemic denudation of the epithelium with reepithelializati on, mild chronic inflammation, and extensive collagen synthesis with m ural fibrosis. The lesion is distinct from Crohn's disease. Its pathop hysiological mechanisms remain unknown.