Author/Editor		Letonja, Saša
Title		Okužbe dihal pri starostnikih - izziv ali vsakdanji problem
Translated title		Respiratory tract infections in the elderly - a challenge or an everyday problem
Type		članek
Source		In: Hojs R, Krajnc I, Pahor A, editors. Zbornik predavanj in praktikum 11. srečanje internistov in zdravnikov splošne medicine Iz prakse za prakso z mednarodno udeležbo; 2000 maj 19-20; Maribor. Maribor: Splošna bolnišnica Maribor,
Publication year		2000
Volume		str. 35-46
Language		slo
Abstract		Respiratory tract infections are the most common infections in general. Different microorganisms may cause the inflammation. The clinical picture varies from mild infection of the bronchial mucosa to overwhelming parenchyma infection presenting as pneumonia. Pneumonia is the most frequent cause of morbidity and mortality in the elderly. The aged need to be admitted to hospital more often and they usually require supportive measures, have longer hospital stays, and the outcome may be worse. The clinical findings are often quite atypical and are most commonly presented as mental disturbances or nonspecific deterioration of the general condition, frequently without fever. Chest radiographs and laboratory tests need to be done to confirm the diagnosis. Community-acquired pneumonia in the elderly is mainly caused by Streptococcus pneumonia and Haemophylus influenzae, in the nursing home by gram-negative organisms. Tuberculosis should be excluded as a causative agent. Antibiotic therapy remains the mainstay of therapy for pneumonia. The use of pneumococcal and influenza vaccination may help limit the occurrence and impact of such infections.
Descriptors		RESPIRATORY TRACT INFECTIONS AGED BRONCHITIS PNEUMONIA INFLUENZA TUBERCULOSIS, PULMONARY