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Disseminated gonococcal infection in elderly patients
Archives of Internal Medicine
|September 1, 1986
Summary
Disseminated gonococcal infection is rare in elderly patients but presents similarly to younger individuals. Early clinical suspicion is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment of this penicillin-susceptible condition.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Rheumatology
- Geriatrics
Background:
- Disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI) is a systemic complication of Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
- DGI is typically diagnosed in younger, sexually active populations.
- Limited data exists on DGI presentation and diagnosis in elderly individuals.
Observation:
- Four elderly patients, aged 53-71 years, were diagnosed with DGI.
- Three patients presented with septic arthritis, a common DGI manifestation.
- One patient exhibited fever, skin lesions, and malaise, also consistent with DGI.
Findings:
- Clinical presentation of DGI in the elderly mirrors that in younger patients.
- Despite similar symptoms, DGI was not initially suspected in these elderly cases.
- All isolated gonococcal strains remained susceptible to penicillin treatment.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers should maintain a high index of suspicion for DGI in elderly patients presenting with relevant symptoms.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential, as DGI can lead to significant morbidity.
- The continued susceptibility of gonococci to penicillin underscores its importance in treating DGI.