CLD is an autosomal recessive disorder of intestinal electrolyte absorption caused by mutations in the solute carrier family 26, member 3 (SLC26A3) gene, and continuous production of watery diarrhea induces dehydration, metabolic alkalosis and many kinds of electrolyte disturbances in CLD patients.
A putative role of a primary anion exchange defect of SLC26A3 in male subfertility and the decline of renal function due to chronic dehydration deserve further characterization.