[Platelet inhibition in elderly patients]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Thrombosis
• Geriatric Medicine

Background:

• Single antiplatelet therapy (SAPT), primarily acetylsalicylic acid (ASA), is standard for preventing atherosclerotic disease.
• Dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT) is crucial after percutaneous coronary interventions and acute coronary syndromes.
• Bleeding risk is a significant concern, particularly in older patients, influencing treatment duration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize current evidence on SAPT versus DAPT.
• To specifically evaluate antiplatelet strategies in patients aged 75 years and older.
• To highlight the importance of managing bleeding risk in elderly individuals.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing evidence on antiplatelet therapy.
• Focus on clinical predictors of bleeding risk.
• Analysis of treatment strategies for patients aged ≥75 years.

Main Results:

• Older age (≥75 years) is a key predictor of increased bleeding risk.
• Current guidelines emphasize risk-benefit assessment for DAPT duration.
• Evidence for SAPT and DAPT in elderly patients needs careful consideration.

Conclusions:

• Individualized antiplatelet therapy selection is critical for patients ≥75 years.
• Balancing thrombotic risk and bleeding risk is paramount in this population.
• Further research may be needed to optimize antiplatelet strategies for elderly patients.