Sepsis in the elderly

Sepsis and organ failure are significant causes of morbidity and mortality in the geriatric patient. A number of factors contribute to increased risk of septic complications in the elderly. Age-related reduction in host defense and immune competence increase susceptibility of the elderly to a wide variety of pathogens. Atypical presentation is also common with infection in the elderly. The key to blunting the effects of severe infection in the elderly is rapid diagnosis and aggressive resuscitation.