Andrzej Bozek1, Santa Besser, Jerzy Jarzab. 1. Katedra i Klinika Chorób Wewnetrznych i Dermatologii Sl. AM w Zabrzu. Andrzej.927393@pharmanet.com.pl
Abstract
UNLABELLED: Bronchial asthma in the elderly is the significant medical problem because it is often underdiagnosed and insufficiently treated. The aim of the study was the assessment of natural course of bronchial asthma and its diagnostic procedures and treatment in patients after 65 yrs. The study group consisted of 181 patients suffering from asthma, at mean age 69 +/- 2.1 yrs. Apart from retrospective analysis, spirometry, skin tests and serum IgE concentration were performed. RESULTS: The mean duration of asthma was 23 +/- 7.2 yrs and in most cases time of proper diagnosis was prolonged. 49% of elderly patients bad a positive history to atopy. In spirometry the mean value of FEV1 was 2.78 +/- 1.3 l/s. House dust mites were the most common allergen confirmed by skin prick tests and specific serum IgE level. CONCLUSION: The observations proved underdiagnosis and insufficient treatment of asthma in the elderly. Positive skin test and specific IgE observed in a large group of elderly objects can indicate atopic mechanism in these cases.
UNLABELLED: Bronchial asthma in the elderly is the significant medical problem because it is often underdiagnosed and insufficiently treated. The aim of the study was the assessment of natural course of bronchial asthma and its diagnostic procedures and treatment in patients after 65 yrs. The study group consisted of 181 patients suffering from asthma, at mean age 69 +/- 2.1 yrs. Apart from retrospective analysis, spirometry, skin tests and serum IgE concentration were performed. RESULTS: The mean duration of asthma was 23 +/- 7.2 yrs and in most cases time of proper diagnosis was prolonged. 49% of elderly patients bad a positive history to atopy. In spirometry the mean value of FEV1 was 2.78 +/- 1.3 l/s. House dust mites were the most common allergen confirmed by skin prick tests and specific serum IgE level. CONCLUSION: The observations proved underdiagnosis and insufficient treatment of asthma in the elderly. Positive skin test and specific IgE observed in a large group of elderly objects can indicate atopic mechanism in these cases.