Study on Non-Tuberculous Aerobic Bacterial Profile of Lower Respiratory Tract Infections in Hospitalised Geriatric Population in a Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

BACKGROUNDThe increasing number of persons above 65 years of age forms a special population at risk for infections. The vulnerability of this age group is related to impaired host defences such as diminished cell-mediated immunity. LRTIs place a considerable strain on the health budget and are more serious than upper respiratory infections. Accurate diagnosis of respiratory tract infections in older people is problematic because of the lack of clear symptoms and signs. In addition, the increasing prevalence of bacterial resistance to antibiotic therapy has complicated the antimicrobial selection process and highlights the importance of appropriate treatment.