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Approach to oncologic emergencies in the elderly
1Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina.
Clinics in Geriatric Medicine
|August 1, 1987
Summary
This article addresses urgent oncologic emergencies in the elderly, detailing management for 14 common acute complications of malignancy. It emphasizes early recognition and appropriate treatment, considering quality of life and intensive care unit use.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Oncology
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Acute oncologic complications are prevalent in the elderly.
- Physiologic changes in aging can affect tolerance to these conditions.
- A comprehensive guide to managing these emergencies in older adults is lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a summary of oncologic emergency management in aged patients.
- To detail the recognition and treatment of 14 common acute complications.
- To discuss quality of life and intensive care unit utilization in this population.
Main Methods:
- Review and synthesis of existing literature on oncologic emergencies in the elderly.
- Categorization of clinical events as urgent rather than emergent.
- Discussion of treatment appropriateness based on patient status.
Main Results:
- Identified and described 14 common acute oncologic complications in the aged.
- Highlighted the importance of early recognition and timely intervention.
- Provided guidance on treatment decisions, including quality of life considerations.
Conclusions:
- Urgent oncologic events in the elderly require specific management strategies.
- Early recognition and tailored treatment are crucial for better outcomes.
- Careful consideration of quality of life and intensive care is essential when deciding on treatment.