Growth dynamics in cystic fibrosis

The growth profiles of 28 cystic fibrosis patients, followed for at least three years, were analysed in order to study the dynamics of growth and to verify if any correlation with clinical events exists. Heights and weights were recorded at three-month intervals, and the patterns did not appear stable or linear, although a graphical smoothing might depict a linear pattern. Height and weight velocity profiles were plotted and all cases showed regular pulsatile patterns of height and weight velocity. By taking measurements at three-month intervals, the pulsatile rhythm was found to be associated with a circannual rhythm. When the appearance of clinical events was related to growth velocity profiles for each individual, the majority (71-82%) occurred during the descending phase of the growth velocity. An understanding of the individual pulsatile pattern of growth may actually increase the sensitivity of surveillance, and checks might be programmed according to the individual pattern, since the risk of developing an adverse clinical event is significantly greater during the slowing phase of the growth velocity.