Cystic Fibrosis — Viva

Opening (30 s)

"Cystic Fibrosis — give a one-line definition and the single most important immediate risk."

Model: Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an autosomal recessive multi-system disorder caused by loss-of-function mutations in the CFTR gene (chromosome 7q31.2; F508del accounts for ~70% of disease alleles). CFTR encodes a cAMP-regulated epithelial chloride/bicarbonate channel; its dysfunction produces dehydrated, viscous secretions across lungs, pancreas, gut, liver, sweat glands and reproductive tract. Pulmonary

Station 1 — Pathophysiology (2 min)

Explain the mechanism chain from cause to clinical features and one major complication.

Station 2 — Clinical diagnosis (2 min)

Classic presentation, atypical groups, named bedside signs, and what you examine for red flags.

Red flag cue: Acute pulmonary exacerbation — increased cough, sputum volume or purulence, dyspnoea, fatigue, weight loss, FEV1 fall over 10 percent, fever, new crackles — needs prompt IV dual antibiotics per sputum culture, intensified airway clearance and nutritional support

Station 3 — Investigations (2 min)

First-line tests, definitive tests, and any named score with exact components.

Station 4 — Emergency management (3 min)

ABC priorities, first drugs with dose and route, procedures, and when to escalate to ICU/theatre.

Station 5 — Definitive / long-term care (2 min)

Stepwise definitive therapy, monitoring, complications of treatment, follow-up.

Station 6 — Special populations (2 min)

Child / pregnancy / elderly / immunocompromised / renal impairment — what changes.

Station 7 — Evidence & pitfalls (2 min)

Landmark trial or guideline name if standard; three classic exam traps.

Station 8 — Rapid-fire pearls (1 min)

Five high-yield facts a candidate must not forget under time pressure.

Examiner pass criteria

• Speaks in mechanisms and numbers, not vague lists
• Gives at least one exact dose or threshold
• Names escalation criteria
• Avoids dangerous delays (imaging when unstable, etc.)