Abstract
We studied the clinical characteristics of tuberculosis in elderly patients aged 65 years of age and older, who make up the largest group of TB cases in Japan. 108 patients were admitted to the tuberculosis ward of National Nishi-Kofu Hospital from 1999 to 2000. Study subjects were 60 cases, aged 65 or more (elderly group), and the remaining 48 cases, aged 64 or under, were the control group. Clinical features of both groups were compared. Values of performance status were significantly higher in the elderly group. Serum alubumin levels were lower in the elderly group, but not ignificantly. Complications were noted more frequently in the elderly group. The prevalence of concomitant conditions, such as hypertension, history of abdominal operation, malignancy, and cerebrovascular disorders was higher in the elderly group, while diabetes mellitus was more frequently seen in the control group. There was no significant difference between the two groups regarding the frequency of liver diseases. Regarding lifestyles, in the control group, the proportion of cases who lived alone, led an irregular lifestyle, and had contact with TB patients, was significantly higher than that of the elderly group. The rate of changing drugs due to side effects was significantly higher in the elderly group, however the probability of having the standard treatment was similar in both groups. Therefore, the outcome was also similar in both groups.
