Which of the following diseases causes a build up of mucus in the lungs and pancreatic ducts to the small intestine?
A Malaria
B Cystic fibrosis
C Influenza
D Alzheimer’s disease
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is B. Cystic fibrosis.
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that primarily affects the lungs and the digestive system, including the pancreas and intestines. It causes the body to produce thick and sticky mucus that can clog airways in the lungs and block the pancreatic ducts that lead to the small intestine. This mucus buildup interferes with normal function in both systems.
In the lungs, the thick mucus traps bacteria and other particles, leading to repeated lung infections, inflammation, and difficulty breathing. Over time, the persistent mucus buildup damages lung tissue and reduces respiratory function.
In the pancreas, the mucus blocks the release of digestive enzymes that are necessary for breaking down food in the small intestine. This blockage results in poor digestion and absorption of nutrients, which can cause malnutrition and poor growth in affected individuals.
Malaria, option A, is caused by a parasite transmitted by mosquitoes and primarily affects red blood cells and the liver. It does not cause mucus buildup in the lungs or pancreatic ducts.
Influenza, option C, is a viral infection that affects the respiratory system, causing symptoms like fever, cough, and sore throat, but it does not cause thick mucus buildup blocking the pancreas or intestines.
Alzheimer’s disease, option D, is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects the brain, leading to memory loss and cognitive decline. It does not impact mucus production or cause blockages in the lungs or digestive system.
Thus, cystic fibrosis is unique among these options in causing abnormal mucus buildup in both the lungs and the pancreatic ducts leading to the small intestine.