Which of the following is not a symptom of cystic fibrosis?

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder that primarily affects the lungs and digestive system. Symptoms typically arise due to the thick and sticky mucus produced by the body, leading to various complications.

Excessive sputum is a hallmark of cystic fibrosis as the condition causes obstructive lung disease due to the accumulation of mucus in the airways, which can lead to chronic infections and respiratory issues. Abdominal pain can also occur in cystic fibrosis due to pancreatic insufficiency; the thick mucus blocks the release of digestive enzymes, leading to malabsorption and gastrointestinal discomfort. Sinusitis is another common complication in individuals with cystic fibrosis, as the condition predisposes patients to chronic sinusitis due to mucus build-up and infections in the sinuses.

Fever, however, is not a direct symptom of cystic fibrosis itself but can occur in the setting of an infection or inflammation due to complications arising from the disease. It is not considered a core symptom of CF, which is why selecting fever as an option identifies it correctly as not being a symptom of cystic fibrosis. In summary, the other options are integral symptoms associated with the progression of the disease, while fever arises secondary to other complications and does not reflect the underlying condition directly.