Infecties bij de bejaarde patiënt

– Infections are an increasing problem in the elderly population, because of the often atypical presentation and the more frequent occurrence of complications, which lead to increased morbidity and mortality.

– The increased prevalence of infections in the elderly is due to a number of factors: increased exposure to micro-organisms (especially in nursing homes); degeneration of various organs (atherosclerosis, pulmonary emphysema, diverticulosis, prolapse); decreased immune response; concomitant diseases (e.g. diabetes mellitus) and (or) use of medication.

– There is often a delay in the diagnosis because the presentation of infection in the elderly is frequently atypical and symptoms are attributed to old age, rather than to infection.

– Treatment may be hampered by increased resistance of micro-organisms, interaction with other drugs and toxicity problems.