[Practical approach to usual rheumatologic and traumatic diseases in elderly patients]

Rheumatologic and traumatic pathology is particularly important in elderly patients because it may compromise autonomy. The severity of the loss of autonomy is variable and it may be temporary or permanent. Therefore rapid and suitable care is necessary, old age in itself being an emergency factor. The purpose of this article is to develop an approach that based on presenting symptoms such as pain, mild or severe disability, or a modification of behavior in an elderly patient will enable:--to correctly evaluate the clinical findings which will guide the imaging--to not exclude a traumatic origin even if it doesn't seem obvious--to adapt the radiological examinations depending on the therapeutic possibilities--to demonstrate that plain radiographs are usually sufficient--to not deny access to CT or MRI systematically on the basis of old age. Knowledge of specific geriatric issues and correlation with imaging findings will usually improve the quality and quantity of life of elderly patients.