Rosh Pediatrics Practice Exam

What would be an appropriate dietary recommendation for an infant diagnosed with cystic fibrosis?

1. Low-fat diet with fruit and vegetables

2. High-protein diet with electrolyte supplementation

3. Low-carbohydrate diet with vitamin D

4. High-calorie diet with pancreatic enzyme replacement

The correct answer is: High-calorie diet with pancreatic enzyme replacement

For an infant diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, a high-calorie diet with pancreatic enzyme replacement is particularly important due to the condition's impact on digestion and nutritional absorption. Cystic fibrosis leads to thick mucus production, which can obstruct the pancreatic ducts and hinder the delivery of digestive enzymes to the intestine. As a result, infants may struggle to adequately digest and absorb nutrients, necessitating a diet that provides extra calories and appropriate macronutrients to promote healthy growth and development. Pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT) is essential for these patients, as it helps to improve the digestion and absorption of fats and proteins, making it easier for them to gain weight and receive the necessary nutrients from their diet. A high-calorie diet supplies the increased energy needs associated with managing cystic fibrosis and supports overall health. In contrast, the other dietary recommendations do not adequately address the specific challenges posed by cystic fibrosis. A low-fat diet, for example, would not adequately meet the energy requirements, as individuals with this condition often require higher fat intake to compensate for malabsorption issues. A high-protein diet is beneficial, but without emphasizing caloric intake, it may not provide sufficient overall energy. Similarly, focusing solely on low-carbohydrate or vitamin D