[Chances and limitations of chemotherapy in elderly patients].

The chronological age of a patient should not be a barrier to apply chemotherapy. Elderly patients can benefit from chemotherapy. Chronological age should not be a reason for diagnostic or therapeutic nihilism, as the age of a patient poorly characterizes their health situation. Data with high level of evidence on treatment of elderly patients with cancer are limited. A comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) describes the individual deficits and resources of a patient much better. Limitations in CGA are risk factors for increased toxicity and decreased treatment benefit. The currently available data demonstrate under- and over-treatment in elderly patients with cancer.