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[Clinically important gastroenterologic disorders in Korean elderly].
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Korea. wshong@amc.seoul.kr
The Korean Journal of Gastroenterology = Taehan Sohwagi Hakhoe Chi
|November 25, 2003
Summary
Aging minimally impacts gastroenterologic organ function due to high reserve capacity. However, elderly individuals face increased risks for specific disorders like peptic ulcers and malignancies, requiring tailored management.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Geriatrics
- Internal Medicine
Context:
- Aging typically leads to decreased organ system function.
- Gastroenterologic organs exhibit remarkable functional reserve capacity, mitigating age-related decline.
- This resilience is attributed to structural redundancy and robust hormonal/enzymatic production.
Purpose:
- To describe common gastroenterologic disorders in the Korean elderly.
- To discuss age-related physiological and pathological changes in gastroenterologic organs.
- To highlight differences in presentation, treatment, and prognosis for elderly patients.
Summary:
- Gastroenterologic function remains largely preserved in aging adults.
- Elderly populations exhibit a higher incidence of specific conditions, including peptic ulcers, vascular complications, drug-induced issues, and malignancies.
- These conditions stem from intrinsic aging changes or comorbidities like diabetes and neurological diseases.
Impact:
- Informs clinical practice regarding the unique aspects of geriatric gastroenterology.
- Emphasizes the need for age-specific diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.
- Contributes to understanding the epidemiology and management of gastrointestinal diseases in older adults.