Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Older Adults

Community-Acquired Pneumonia in Older Adults

Breen T R; File T M

Current Geriatrics Reports

2015

2015-03

Community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) is a common disorder with significant morbidity and mortality, particularly for older adults. Risk factors include comorbid conditions commonly found in older patients as well as immunocompromising conditions such as steroid use or administration of anti-TNF agents. While Streptococcus pneumoniae remains the most common cause of CAP in older patients, the microbiology of pneumonia differs somewhat from that of young adults with increased incidence of Staphylococcus aureus and gram-negative bacilli (especially for patients who are residents of nursing homes). The classic features of infections such as fever may not be present in older patients. Antimicrobial therapy is similar to that of younger patients and based on recent guidelines; however, there is an increased need to adjust doses based on the pharmacokinetics of the older population. Prevention includes administration of preventive vaccines and control of comorbid conditions.

community-acquired pneumonia; Geriatrics & Gerontology; Elderly; Vaccine; Antimicrobial therapy; Nursing home-acquired pneumonia; Respiratory pathogens

Journal Article or Conference Abstract Publication

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