Geriatrics: Immune System and Confusion

The immune system of older adults is often characterized by a reduced ability to respond to foreign substances and infections, due to deficiencies in some cell function.

A temporary state of confusion characterized by disturbed consciousness and behaviors that develop rapidly.

Prejudice or discrimination against older people.

Older adults may experience various sleep issues, including insomnia and hypersomnia.

Factors like dementia, stroke, UTIs, osteoporosis, can make it hard for older people to move around.

Older adults are more susceptible to drug interactions due to changes in their metabolism and organ function.

It is important to consult with the physician to determine if any medications need to be adjusted or stopped before a surgery for an older adult; this differs per person.

Life expectancy at certain ages has changed over the years, and varies amongst the population; average life expectancy in older adults is a factor.

Small, round opacities (shadows less than 10mm in diameter).

A test used to diagnose impingement syndrome of the upper extremities.

Quantiferon test, a blood test.

Affects the extremities, not other parts of the body (or other systems).

Radon exposure.

Small opacities (under 1 cm) are indexed as: RU, RM, RL; or A, B, C; or Sij, Sil, Sitbc; or p,q,r.

Characterized by erythema migrans.

Services sector.

X-ray signs indicate advanced silicosis, featuring bronchiectasis, widespread nodulation (shadows larger than 10mm), and pleural adhesions.

Raynaud phenomenon is NOT a component of hand-arm vibration syndrome, rheumatic fever, or systemic lupus erythematosus.

Age brings physiologic changes in blood and immune systems, including polycythemia, increased bone marrow reserve, decreased autoantibodies, and potential anemia or autoimmunity.

A substantial proportion (nearly three-quarters) of elderly people use non-prescription drugs, which can lead to significant side effects and medication interactions.

The HYVET study showed a tendency toward reduced dementia incidence with active therapy, even though the cognitive function sub-study ended early.

Frequent use of NSAIDs by the elderly can worsen blood pressure control, cause kidney problems, and increase the risk of stomach bleeding.

Insomnia can have various causes, including side effects from some medications (iatrogenic) and sometimes, unrelated to physical pain.

COX-2 inhibitors are not safer for older adults compared to nonselective NSAIDs and can further worsen already high blood pressure.

A decrease in body fat and an increase in total body water is a common change in aging.

Occupational hazards include gases, noise and stress.

Contact allergic dermatitis is a frequently reported occupational skin disease.

Medications like digoxin, procainamide, and quinidine may have prolonged half-lives in older people, leading to a greater risk of toxicity if not carefully monitored.

Lithium is a medication used primarily to treat psychiatric conditions.

Musculoskeletal disorders, cancers, and respiratory illnesses are among the most common occupational health issues.

Secondary elimination includes actions like administering antidotes and discontinuing exposure to the toxin.

Older patients with multiple chronic conditions often take multiple medications which may include non-prescribed medications.

Beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and ACE inhibitors are frequently favorable choices when treating hypertension in older adults.

Older adults often experience decreased bone density, increased risk of fractures like hip fractures, and functional impairments of the musculoskeletal system related to aging.

Geriatric patients frequently exhibit decreased kidney function (renal clearance), potential drug interactions, and varying reactions to similar drug doses (altered pharmacodynamics).

Older adults may be less responsive or more responsive to certain medications compared to younger adults. For instance, they might be more sensitive to some drugs (like opiates and anticoagulants) and less sensitive to others (like beta-adrenergic agents).

Lead (Pb) poisoning can cause symptoms like inappropriate laughter, euphoria, impulsiveness, confusion, and aggressive behavior. This is often a symptom of heavy metal poisoning.

Skin prick tests and epicutaneous tests are often suitable methods, however, they may use specific IgE antibodies for confirmation.

The gold standard for diagnosing occupational asthma is a specific bronchoconstriction test.

Insomnia treatments (specifically anticholinergics) and NSAIDs can negatively impact blood pressure control, potentially causing kidney problems and stomach bleeding.

A disease caused by exposure to harmful substances or conditions at work. This can include physical hazards like asbestos, chemical hazards like benzene, or ergonomic factors like repetitive strain.

A state where the TB bacteria is present in the body but not causing active disease. It can be confirmed by tests like the tuberculin skin test and interferon gamma release assays.

An occupational respiratory disease caused by inhaling cotton, flax or hemp dust. Symptoms are often worse at the end of the working week.

Lung cancer caused by exposure to substances in the workplace, most commonly asbestos.

An inflammatory disease affecting the skin and muscles. It's often associated with malignancy (cancer).

Back pain can be caused by various factors, including inflammation, disc disease, and congenital malformations.

An autoimmune disease affecting various organs and systems, including the skin, joints, and kidneys. Characteristic features include anemia, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia.

Older adults may experience changes in their digestive system, such as decreased absorption of calcium, delayed metabolism of drugs, and fecal impaction.