Cost(s) of caring for patients with cystic fibrosis.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Cystic fibrosis (CF) has received a lot of attention in the past few years because of increased longevity and the emergence of ground-breaking new drugs targeting the molecular and cellular defects, making a huge clinical difference, and - not incidentally - carrying massive price tags. The prices of these new drugs make the question of overall costs of CF care highly relevant.

RECENT FINDINGS: This article reviews recent developments in CF science and treatment, and highlights areas that contribute to costs of CF care, emphasizing how these costs have increased.

SUMMARY: This article should help the pediatrician stay abreast of high points of CF care, with an awareness of the factors that wield the biggest influence on overall costs, to patients, families and the US healthcare system.