The diagnosis of cystic fibrosis is important to the otolaryngologist because of the association with chronic sinusitis and nasal polyposis. Eighty-five percent of patients are diagnosed under the age of 15, and diagnosis beyond age 20 is uncommon. We present two patients over 35 years of age in whom the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis was made during the course of workup and treatment for recurrent nasal polyposis and chronic sinusitis. To our knowledge, only one prior such case has been reported. This paper will provide a brief overview of the general aspects of the disease, discuss otolaryngic manifestations and management, and recommend indications for sweat testing in the adult.
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