[Infection of chronic wounds in elderly patients]

Chronic wounds infection in the elderly patients presents the risk of functional decompensation, or irreversible worsening of a wound. The diversity of clinical situations, the absence of data from clinical trials in the literature and a certain fatalism in view of the poor prognosis of these conditions should not be allowed to delay the early preparation of a patient-centred care plan (aiming at complete scarring, remission or symptomatic relief). Diagnostic and therapeutic strategies must be flexible, to take account not only of functional issues, constraints and special features relating to the patient but also of the resources and technical means available. Antibiotic therapy is widely used and must be reduced. It needs, however, to be considered for inclusion in a care plan that must be comprehensive and multidisciplinary.