Pediatric Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Center

Nationally Recognized Pediatric CF Center in Central Massachusetts and Beyond

UMass Memorial Medical Center – Children’s Medical Center delivers pediatric-focused cystic fibrosis care from birth through adolescence and early adulthood. Pediatric pulmonologists lead an expert team providing comprehensive care that promotes your child’s development while slowing disease progression. Our commitment to pediatric care excellence and research has earned our program prestigious Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Foundation accreditation.

Side Effects We Treat

The Cystic Fibrosis Center at the Children’s Medical Center offers the best available treatments for cystic fibrosis in children. We deliver complete care, including prevention and management of complications, which may include:

• Cystic fibrosis-related diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2)
• Delayed puberty  
• Digestive disorders and malnutrition
• Failure to thrive
• Pneumonia and other lung infections

Pediatric CF Services

Our Cystic Fibrosis Center is one of the most respected programs in the nation. A coordinated team of specialists delivers personalized therapies and family-focused support. We are here for you when you need us.

Pediatric cystic fibrosis services include: 

Pediatric CF Screening and Diagnosis

We provide advanced evaluations for babies who test positive for CF on their newborn screening panel. Offerings include sweat testing, which detects elevated levels of chloride. Genetic testing, which confirms the presence of gene mutations consistent with CF, is also available. 

Respiratory Treatment and Monitoring 

Pediatric lung specialists (pulmonologists) manage your child’s respiratory symptoms. Lung function testing and other advanced assessments help us track disease progression and treatment response. Respiratory therapists use a variety of techniques to help your child clear their lungs, lowering the risk of infections.

Inpatient Care

CF symptom flare-ups (exacerbations) and complications sometimes require a hospital stay. If this happens to your child, our pediatric pulmonologists are at their bedside every day. This approach helps your child receive care from providers they already know and trust. It also leads to personalized treatments tailored to your child’s unique needs.

Additional Services and Support

Our team includes pharmacists who coordinate prescriptions. A dietitian optimizes your child’s nutrition. Gastroenterologists deliver additional therapies for digestive concerns. And endocrinologists manage diabetes. The team also includes social workers who help families navigate practical challenges and child life specialists who provide age-appropriate support.

Assistance Between Appointments

No matter when symptom flare-ups happen, you can count on us to be there. During office hours, our nurses are easy to reach. You can also send an electronic message via MyChart. Outside of business hours and on weekends, call the hospital. A pediatric pulmonologist is always available to talk to you.