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Esophagitis in frail elderly people
Fabrizio Cardin1, Nadia Minicuci, Paola Siviero
1Geriatric Department, Division of Geriatric Surgery, University of Padova, Padova, Italy. word.online@tin.it
Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology
|April 12, 2007
Summary
Esophagitis exacerbates frailty in hospitalized elderly patients, increasing mortality risk. Early identification of esophagitis in this population is crucial for improving clinical outcomes and care.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Gastroenterology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Investigated clinical differences in acutely hospitalized elderly patients with and without esophagitis.
- Assessed the impact of esophagitis on the health status and outcomes of elderly inpatients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the clinical course and risk factors associated with esophagitis in hospitalized elderly individuals.
- To evaluate the association between esophagitis and frailty, comorbidity, and mortality in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- A case-control study utilizing clinical records of 338 elderly patients (169 with esophagitis, 169 without) who underwent gastroduodenoscopy.
- Analyzed demographic data, diagnoses, symptoms, medications, and outcomes, including mortality and discharge diagnoses.
Main Results:
- Independent risk factors for esophagitis included acute respiratory disorders, obesity, being bedridden, and a prior esophagitis diagnosis.
- Symptoms like gastrointestinal bleeding and heartburn were significant indicators, while proton pump inhibitors and nitrates showed protective effects.
- Patients with esophagitis had higher mortality rates, increased comorbidity (Charlson index), anorexia, and nausea.
Conclusions:
- Esophagitis appears to be a significant factor exacerbating frailty in hospitalized elderly patients.
- Identifying esophagitis in this vulnerable population may aid in better management and improved clinical care.
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