Geriatrics » Clinical evaluation of common complaints

Infections in the elderly

Most infections in the elderly are associated with higher morbidity and mortality rates. Elderly are more susceptible to infection for several reasons. The physical barrier of the epidermis is thinner with aging and is more readily broken and invaded; mechanical and biochemical barriers of glandular secretions are less effective; ability to synthesize antibody in response to antigen declines with age and cell-mediated immunity also declines with age. Classic presentations of infection occur less commonly in the elderly than in younger persons. Many infections present with nonspecific or atypical features. For example, the only evidence of infection might be general malaise, anorexia, nonspecific weakness, mental changes or weight loss.

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