[Analysis of the clinical course of pulmonary tuberculosis in women over 70 years of age].

Abstract

The course of pulmonary tuberculosis was analyzed in 34 females older than 70 years and 30 women, age range 35-55 years (mean 43.8 yrs) treated between 1.01.1985 and 31.12.1988 in the Pulmonological Department of the Szczecin Medical Academy. Pulmonary tuberculosis in females aged more than 70 years was diagnosed basing mainly on clinical grounds (82%), positive sputum (88%) and advanced radiological changes. In 25% evidence of the middle lobe syndrome was found--all sputum positive. In the control group such findings were not seen. In almost all patients of this group 4 drug therapy was instituted. Streptomycin was tolerated the poorest. The therapeutical course was similar in both groups. Pulmonary tuberculosis in the studied group was usually diagnosed in the advanced stage. The population of females of 70 years and older is an important epidemiological risk factor.