[Bacteremia in the elderly: associated and prognostic factors]
S Rubio Félix1, R Aznar Munoz, I Martín Algora
1Servicio de Medicina Interna, Hospital General San Jorge, Huesca.
Revista Clinica Espanola
|April 16, 1998
Summary
Elderly patients over 70 with bacteremia face higher shock and mortality risks. Disseminated intravascular coagulation is a key independent predictor of mortality in bacteremia patients, regardless of age.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Geriatrics
- Epidemiology
Context:
- Bacteremia (bloodstream infection) is a serious condition with increasing prevalence in aging populations.
- Understanding age-related epidemiological factors and prognosis is crucial for effective patient management.
Purpose:
- To investigate the epidemiology, associated factors, and prognosis of bacteremia, with a specific focus on elderly patients (>70 years).
Summary:
- A prospective study of 229 bacteremia episodes found 42% in patients over 70.
- Elderly patients showed similar etiologies and sources but higher rates of shock, diabetes, COPD, heart disease, and mortality.
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation was the primary independent prognostic factor for mortality (OR 14.2).
Impact:
- Findings highlight increased risks for older adults with bacteremia, emphasizing the need for age-specific clinical considerations.
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation and multisystemic failure are critical determinants of mortality in bacteremia across all age groups.
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