Utilization of Parenteral Nutrition in Pediatric Cystic Fibrosis Patients

Background: Malnutrition in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) is common, multi-factorial and can be aggravated during illness. During an episode of illness, inflammation can trigger increased metabolic demands and insensible losses; additionally, illness can be associated with decreased appetite and feeding intolerance. These factors can lead to malnutrition which can result in a weakened immune system, poor appetite, and further malnutrition. Utilizing parenteral nutrition (PN) may be instrumental in breaking this vicious cycle. However, there is limited literature on its use in pediatric patients with CF.