What stool consistency would be typical for an infant diagnosed with cystic fibrosis?

In infants diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, the hallmark of their stool consistency is oily, odorous, and bulky. This is primarily due to the malabsorption of nutrients, particularly fats, which occurs because of insufficient pancreatic enzyme production—a common complication of cystic fibrosis. The thick, sticky mucus typical in this condition obstructs the pancreatic ducts, leading to a reduced ability to digest and absorb fats and proteins effectively.

Consequently, the resulting stool reflects this malabsorption: it appears oily because it contains undigested fats, which also contributes to a distinctly foul odor associated with poor nutrient absorption. The bulkiness of the stool is due to the excess undigested food particles and nutrients that are excreted rather than absorbed by the body, making it noticeably different from other stool types typically found in healthy infants.

Understanding the specific characteristics of an infant's stool in the context of cystic fibrosis can be crucial for early diagnosis and management of the condition, highlighting the importance of monitoring stool consistency as part of the clinical evaluation.