2024 | Mercedes Ibarz¹, Lenneke E. M. Haas², Adrián Ceccato¹³ and Antonio Artigas³⁴
Sepsis is a major public health issue, particularly affecting individuals over 70 years in developed countries. It is associated with high mortality and morbidity, especially in older adults. The aging population increases the risk of sepsis, and its incidence and mortality rates rise with age. Sepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by a dysregulated host response to infection, leading to organ dysfunction. Diagnosis in older adults is challenging due to atypical presentations and subtle symptoms. Biomarkers such as lactate and procalcitonin can aid in early diagnosis and guide antibiotic use. Sepsis in older patients is influenced by factors such as frailty, comorbidities, and age-related changes. Management requires a holistic approach, considering individual factors like frailty, comorbidities, and patient preferences. Antibiotic therapy must account for age-related changes in organ function and drug metabolism. Fluid resuscitation and hemodynamic support require careful management, especially in older patients with chronic hypertension. Sepsis survivors often face long-term outcomes, including cognitive and functional decline, increased risk of hospital readmission, and higher likelihood of discharge to long-term care. Post-intensive care syndrome (PICS) is common in older sepsis survivors, affecting quality of life. The goals of care for older patients involve balancing survival with quality of life, considering patient preferences and values. Research highlights the importance of addressing comorbid geriatric conditions to improve outcomes. Future efforts should focus on improving sepsis management, early recognition, and personalized care to enhance survival and quality of life for older patients with sepsis.Sepsis is a major public health issue, particularly affecting individuals over 70 years in developed countries. It is associated with high mortality and morbidity, especially in older adults. The aging population increases the risk of sepsis, and its incidence and mortality rates rise with age. Sepsis is a life-threatening condition caused by a dysregulated host response to infection, leading to organ dysfunction. Diagnosis in older adults is challenging due to atypical presentations and subtle symptoms. Biomarkers such as lactate and procalcitonin can aid in early diagnosis and guide antibiotic use. Sepsis in older patients is influenced by factors such as frailty, comorbidities, and age-related changes. Management requires a holistic approach, considering individual factors like frailty, comorbidities, and patient preferences. Antibiotic therapy must account for age-related changes in organ function and drug metabolism. Fluid resuscitation and hemodynamic support require careful management, especially in older patients with chronic hypertension. Sepsis survivors often face long-term outcomes, including cognitive and functional decline, increased risk of hospital readmission, and higher likelihood of discharge to long-term care. Post-intensive care syndrome (PICS) is common in older sepsis survivors, affecting quality of life. The goals of care for older patients involve balancing survival with quality of life, considering patient preferences and values. Research highlights the importance of addressing comorbid geriatric conditions to improve outcomes. Future efforts should focus on improving sepsis management, early recognition, and personalized care to enhance survival and quality of life for older patients with sepsis.