Which genetic disorder is characterized by thick mucus production affecting the lungs and pancreas?

• A. Cystic fibrosis
• B. Sinusitis
• C. Arrhythmia
• D. Atheroma

Answer: (A)

Thick, sticky mucus produced due to a CFTR gene mutation leads to blockages in the lungs and pancreatic ducts, causing recurrent lung infections and pancreatic insufficiency. This combination is characteristic of cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. The other conditions don’t involve mucus plugging of the airways and pancreatic ducts: sinusitis is sinus inflammation, arrhythmia is a heart rhythm problem, and atheroma refers to arterial plaque—none match the lung and pancreatic effects seen in cystic fibrosis.