Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 4, 2026
03:22
Microbiological Rapid On-Site Evaluation for Pulmonary Infectious Diseases
Published on: March 1, 2024
Case report: 66 year-old man with recurrent pneumonias and sinusitis
Michel K Barsoum1, Wael Eid, Joann Bennett
1USD, Sioux Falls, SD, USA. mbarsoum@usd.edu
South Dakota Journal of Medicine
|July 30, 2005
Summary
Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is not just a childhood disease. This case highlights CF diagnosis in a 66-year-old, emphasizing the need for physician awareness in older adults with respiratory issues.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonology
- Genetics
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is often perceived as a pediatric condition.
- However, a significant and growing adult CF population exists, with many diagnosed later in life.
- Adults comprise the majority of individuals with CF.
Observation:
- A 66-year-old male presented with a history of recurrent pneumonias and sinusitis.
- The patient experienced an acute exacerbation of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
- This presentation led to a new diagnosis of Cystic Fibrosis.
Findings:
- The adult CF population is substantial, with 64% aged 18-29, 25% aged 30-39, 10% aged 40-49, and 2% aged 50+.
- Late-onset CF can mimic other chronic respiratory diseases.
- The case demonstrates CF presenting in an elderly individual.
Implications:
- Physicians should consider Cystic Fibrosis in elderly patients presenting with recurrent respiratory infections and COPD exacerbations.
- Maintaining a high index of suspicion is crucial for timely diagnosis in older populations.
- This case underscores the importance of recognizing CF beyond childhood for effective patient management.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Pneumonia I: Introduction
Pneumonia is an acute respiratory infection that targets the lungs, specifically the alveoli. These tiny air sacs, essential for oxygen exchange, become engorged with pus and fluid, severely hindering breathing, decreasing oxygen absorption, and causing significant pain and discomfort during respiration.
Risk Factors
Various factors influence the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Age plays a crucial role, with infants, children under two, and individuals over 65 at increased risk due to their...
Risk Factors
Various factors influence the likelihood of developing pneumonia. Age plays a crucial role, with infants, children under two, and individuals over 65 at increased risk due to their...
01:29Pneumonia II: Pathophysiology
The pathophysiology of pneumonia involves the following steps:
01:30Pneumonia III: Complications and Assessment
Pneumonia poses the potential for numerous complications that warrant consideration. These complications include the following:
01:27Pneumothorax-II
Pneumothorax is a medical condition defined by the buildup of air in the pleural space between the lungs and the chest wall. This accumulation of air can lead to partial or complete lung collapse, resulting in a range of clinical manifestations. Understanding the clinical presentation and effective management strategies is crucial for healthcare professionals in providing timely and appropriate care to individuals with pneumothorax.
Clinical Manifestations:
Clinical Manifestations:
01:24Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features
Chronic bronchitis is a key phenotype of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), characterized by airway-centered inflammation and mucus overproduction. It develops from long-term exposure to harmful particles or gases, most commonly cigarette smoke, which triggers a persistent inflammatory response.Cellular and Structural ChangesInflammation initially affects the large bronchi and later the smaller airways, with infiltration by immune cells, including neutrophils, macrophages, and...
01:29Pneumonia I: Introduction
Pneumonia is an infection of the lower respiratory tract that leads to inflammation of the lung parenchyma, often resulting in the accumulation of inflammatory exudate in the alveoli and airways. Unlike the watery, low-protein fluid exudate in pulmonary edema, the exudate in this case is a thick fluid rich in immune cells, proteins, and debris produced during infection and inflammation.This impairs gas exchange and can lead to consolidation of lung tissue. The infection may be caused by a...