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Document Details : Title: Anaemia in the elderly Author(s): VAN PUYVELDE K, CYTRYN E, METS T, BEYER I Journal: Acta Clinica Belgica Volume: 64 Issue: 4 Date: 2009 Pages: 292-302 DOI: 10.2143/ACB.64.4.1002494 Abstract : Anaemia is highly prevalent in elderly populations, particularly in long term care facilities and geriatric wards. Even mild anaemia is associated with adverse health outcomes. Although senescence is considered to be a contributing factor, underlying pathology always has to be thoroughly explored. The most frequent etiologies of anaemia in the elderly are anaemia of chronic disease/inflammation; iron, folate and cobalamin deficiency; and myelodysplastic syndrome. Multiple concomitant etiologies are frequently present. The diagnostic workup is straightforward, not very invasive and should be done systematically. Nutrient defiiciencies require complete workup and cure. Anaemia of chronic disease/inflammation ideally is taken care of by treating the underlying disease. If this is not possible and if glomerular filtration rate is significantly decreased, treatment with erythropoietin should be considered. Most cases of myelodysplastic syndrome will benefit from supportive care, but a specific subgroup responds particularly well to oral thalidomide analogues. Transfusions should be avoided. |
