Viewpoint on tuberculosis in elderly in India

Abstract

With increase in the number of the elderly population in India, the number of patients suffering from tuberculosis has shown an increased prevalence in the elderly. In many of them, the condition is linked to the reactivation of the lesions that were dormant. Immunosenescence appears to play an important role in activating the lesions. The clinical features are often non-specific and pose difficulties in the diagnosis. Radiological changes in the chest, though are suggestive, the microbiological proof is difficult. Though effective drugs are available, often they tolerate them poorly. There is poor adherence to the therapy leading to therapeutic failure. Co morbidities and physical dependency contribute to failure of therapy.

Keywords: Geriatric tuberculosis; Immunosenescence; Tuberculosis in the elderly.