Accredited cystic fibrosis center
Both our pediatric Cystic Fibrosis Center at St. Louis Children’s Hospital and our adult cystic fibrosis center at Washington University School of Medicine are accredited by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. That means your child will receive comprehensive care at centers that specialize in treating the complexities of cystic fibrosis throughout a person’s life.
Experience and expertise
Through our pediatric and adult centers, we see more than 500 patients a year. We follow more than 230 adults and children on a regular basis for continued care. That high volume of patients gives us insights into the disease that programs that see fewer CF patients simply don’t have.
Comprehensive team approach
We see our patients on a regular basis, to keep on top of any changes that may occur — including digestive issues or cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (CFRD). In addition, the center uses a team approach, collaborating with:
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Lung transplant and liver transplant surgeons
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Nurse coordinators
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Dieticians
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Respiratory therapists
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Physical therapists
Prompt newborn screening
Our team consistently performs diagnostic testing within a week of a positive newborn screening for cystic fibrosis. Often, we are able to begin treatment on the same day.
Pediatric lung transplant program
Since 1990, the pediatric lung transplant program has performed more than 400 lung transplants, most commonly to address cystic fibrosis and pulmonary vascular disease. This experience makes the program at St. Louis Children’s Hospital one of the largest lung transplant programs in the world.
Emotional and social support
Living with CF involves more than just physical care. That’s why social workers are part of our team — to address your and your child’s emotional and mental health too. And it’s why we hold monthly cystic fibrosis parent activities.
Clinical research
The Center is part of a National Institutes of Health (NIH)-supported clinical research consortium that studies rare diseases of the airways, focusing on different forms of cystic fibrosis. Other research studies include looking at airway infection, cystic fibrosis-related liver disease, and nutrition. We also conduct clinical trials; please speak with our team if you are interested in your child participating.
