[The brain in the aged].

Under the very broad term of brain in the elderly, we cannot consider exhaustively all the anatomical, physiopathological and pathological aspect and, still less, the therapeutic possibilities in diseases of the anesthetist should know concerning the special characteristics of this aging organ. First are recalled the anatomical, macro and microscopic data of the senile brain. The metabolic characteristics are then considered. Investigations which may give the clinician information concerning the organic state and metabolic capacities of the brain of the elderly subject, e.g. cerebral blood flow, fundus oculi, E.E.G. brain arteriography, tacography or tomodensitometry by scanner, are consideres. But in practice, they are difficult to use and their data are only relatively reliable, i.e. clinical examination is of great imporatnce and the overall impression prevails. The therapeutic possibilities are limited and in these elderly subjects with cerebral metabolism in unstable equilibrium, one should be circumspect and careful in treatment.