[Tuberculosis in elderly persons living in institutions].

INTRODUCTION

In industrialised countries the incidence of tuberculosis increases with age.

STATE OF ART

Tuberculosis remains a current problem in the elderly and may be contracted in an institution. Elderly persons living in institutions account for four times more cases than the elderly living at home. Tuberculosis may present in all forms and situations but the clinical and radiological features may be atypical. Although tuberculin anergy may be found frequently in elderly patients the diagnosis relies on the same principles as in the younger patient. Mortality, even with treatment, is increased and rises with age. Several problems arise in institutions: the screening of sick residents and of subjects at risk as well as the screening of infected patients.

PERSPECTIVES

A rigorous policy of prevention and surveillance should lead to a fall in the incidence of the disease in institutions

CONCLUSIONS

This collection of data demonstrates that tuberculosis remains a real health problem in elderly subjects in institutions.