Tuberculosis in the geriatric patient.

Active tuberculosis is highly prevalent in the geriatric population. The clinical syndromes and diagnostic indications of the different forms of tuberculosis are described. Reactivation pulmonary tuberculosis and miliary tuberculosis in the elderly are particularly difficult to diagnose. A high index of suspicion, a tuberculin skin test, and appropriate laboratory studies are essential for early diagnosis. Therapy for tuberculosis in the elderly must consider efficacy, patient compliance, and toxicity.