Hypercholermic metabolic alcalsosis as a presentation of cystic fibrosis: presentation of two cases

Abstract

Introduction: We describe two cases of patients with hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis as an initial presentation of cystic fibrosis (CF) or as part of a second CF exacerbation.

Clinical Cases: Two patients, 6 and 9 months old, consulted for cough, fever, and dyspnea. The first had syndrome of recurrent bronchial obstruction, without a diagnosis of CF on admission. Both presented with difficulty breathing, dehydration, and malnutrition. Arterial blood gases showed metabolic acidosis, hypokalemia, and severe hypochloremia. Treatment with sodium chloride and potassium improved their electrolyte balance and acid-base status. They did not present with renal or gastrointestinal losses of chloride. CF and pseudo-Barter’s Syndrome were diagnosed.

Conclusion: Metabolic alkalosis can present as an initial manifestation of CF in infants with recurrent bronchiolitis and short stature suspected of having CF: equally it can be an acute exacerbation in patients with known CF. Your recognition and treatment are an opportunity to decrease morbidity.