New Sticker Tests for Cystic Fibrosis

A recent Medgadget article discussed an innovative new test for cystic fibrosis, the genetic disease caused by a malfunctioning chloride channel in the epithelial cells. This results in the accumulation of thick mucus in the airways, causing difficulty breathing and infections. Current testing for cystic fibrosis includes a heel prick followed by the infant wearing a sweat-collecting bracelet for 30 minutes, which doesn’t always work.