The effect of exercise on large artery haemodynamics in cystic fibrosis

Background Adult patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) have resting abnormal large artery haemodynamics. Here, we obtain further insight in patients with CF by evaluating haemodynamic response to physiological stress. Methods Thirty-six stable CF patients mean (SD) age 28.9 (9.0) years and 25 controls matched for age, gender and body mass index were studied. Central haemodynamic parameters; including augmentation index (AIx) and wasted left ventricular pressure energy (∆EW) were determined pre, during and post light intensity cycle ergometry. Results During exercise, despite a similar heart rate and blood pressure, patients had comparatively greater ∆EW (P = 0.03) and trend towards greater AIx (P = 0.07) than controls. Exercise ∆EW was greatest in patients with CF related diabetes (n = 11). In all subjects, exercise ∆EW was related to age (r = 0.54, P < 0.001) and FEV1% predicted (r = − 0.32, P = 0.01). Conclusions Adults with CF have an abnormal haemodynamic response to exercise. This finding has deleterious implications for myocardial performance.