Abnormal levels of prostaglandins and fatty acids in cystic fibrosis [letter].

Like Dr Chase and Dr Dupont we have found essential fatty-acid deficiency, 
usually subclinical, in cystic fibrosis patients. However, we feel that their 
data on prostaglandin synthesis may have other interpretations. In patients with 
deficiency of linoleic acid, oleic acid is used an alternative substrate; 
and instead of dihomogammalinoleic acid, an alternative 20:3 fatty acid is 
produced. We have found increased amounts of this substance in the 
plasma of patients with cystic fibrosis. We agree with the authors' 
conclusion that levels of linoleic acid are specifically related to P.G. 
production in children with cystic fibrosis. It remains to be shown 
whether children with cystic fibrosis have a primary abnormality of fatty-acid 
metabolism or whether the observed disturbances of prostaglandin metabolism are secondary 
to malabsorption of dietary essential fatty acids. In either case, certain 
clinical features of the disease may well be explained by prostaglandin 
disturbances. 