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Getting the latest healthcare news for you
Getting the latest healthcare news for you
Starting cystic fibrosis triple therapy early pays off. A new study found that one year of elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor (ETI) therapy in children under 5 significantly reduced sinus blockage and increased olfactory bulb volume — suggesting early treatment may prevent permanent smell loss. Prior research showed little improvement when ETI was started later in life, making timing a key factor.
Starting cystic fibrosis (CF) triple therapy early could make a lasting difference. A prospective study across six US pediatric CF centers followed 31 young children (average age 4.8 years) for one year after beginning elexacaftor-tezacaftor-ivacaftor (ETI) therapy. The results showed meaningful improvements in both sinus health and olfactory function — areas that can suffer permanent damage if left untreated.
The findings are especially notable because previous research found little to no olfactory improvement when ETI was initiated later in life, suggesting a critical window for intervention exists in early childhood.
By the Numbers:
Why it matters: Smell loss and chronic sinus disease are underappreciated complications of CF that can significantly affect quality of life. This study suggests that getting kids on ETI therapy early — before irreversible damage sets in — could protect olfactory function long-term, adding another compelling reason to prioritize early treatment initiation.
