Clinical Spectrum of Congestive Heart Failure in the Elderly Population

One hundred and fifty-two patients with congestive heart failure above 65 years of age were treated at The Mercy Hospital of Pittsburgh in the calendar year 1992, forming 38% of the total number of inpatients with this condition for that year. Hypertension, ischemic heart disease, and valvular diseases were the common etiological factors. Evidence for diastolic dysfunction was seen in 34% of patients by echocardiographic Doppler study. Atrial fibrillation was the most common arrhythmia. Acute or subacute dyspnea was the most common presenting symptom. Response to conventional treatment was excellent but readmissions for recurrence of congestive heart failure were very common. The in-hospital mortality of these patients in that year was 6%. The possible precipitating factors for recurrent admissions are discussed. In order to favorably control precipitating factors and reduce readmissions, a multicenter registry of congestive heart failure in the elderly is suggested.