Hypoelectrolytemia as a Presentation and Complication of Cystic Fibrosis

Abstract

We describe three patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) with four episodes of hy poelectrolytemia, two of which were associated with documented metabolic al kalosis. CF should be included in the differential diagnosis of infants and children presenting with hypoelectrolytemia and metabolic alkalosis. Patients with CF are at risk of developing severe hypochloremia in hot weather and during intercurrent illness. An abrupt diminution of oral intake is an important suggestive sign, alerting the physician to look for the development of hypoelectrolytemia.