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[Joint destruction and infection in advanced age]
D Bettin1, M Dethloff, A Karbowski
1Universität Münster Klinik und Poliklinik für Allgemeine Orthopädie.
Zeitschrift Fur Orthopadie Und Ihre Grenzgebiete
|November 1, 1994
Summary
Diagnosing joint empyema in elderly patients is challenging due to degenerative joint diseases and reduced immunity. Delayed diagnosis in older adults significantly increases risks of sepsis and mortality.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Elderly patients present unique challenges for diagnosing joint empyema.
- Degenerative joint diseases and diminished immune response complicate early detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the diagnostic delays and clinical characteristics of joint empyema in patients over 60 years old.
- To highlight the impact of delayed diagnosis on patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 29 patients aged over 60 with joint empyema.
- Review of initial infection sources, risk factors, and causative microorganisms.
Main Results:
- Average diagnostic delay was 5.1 months.
- Common initial infection sites included urinary tract (12), skin (10), pneumonia (6), and decubitus (3).
- Staphylococcus aureus was the most frequent pathogen (12 cases), with mixed infections occurring in 8 patients.
Conclusions:
- Delayed diagnosis of joint empyema in the elderly is common and associated with significant morbidity.
- High rates of general sepsis (5 patients) and mortality (3 patients) underscore the critical need for timely diagnosis and treatment.