Abdominal Pain in Elderly Flashcards
What is different about the presentation of peritonitis in the elderly?
80% will NOT have rigidity
In general, what is different about the presentation of the acute abdomen in the elderly?
Less abdominal inflammatory response; less guarding/spasm, lower leucocytes count and lower and delayed temperature
Predisposes elderly to perforation and gangrene
poor blood supply to thinner appendix
Presents in elderly with vague abdominal complaints. May have RUQ. US is diagnostic
acute cholecystitis in elderly
Presents in elderly with vague abdominal complaints.
biliary colic
Common cause of acute pancreatitis
gallstones
Complications of acute diverticulitis that occur in elderly with fewer symptoms and signs
Phlegmonous inflammation, Fistula to adjacent organs or skin, Obstruction of the colon
Patient presents with left lower quadrant pain, tenderness, moderate abdominal distension and moderate temperature elevation
acute diverticulitis
Why do elderly patients have significantly higher risk to develop peptic ulcers?
use of NSAIDs
Typical presentation of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm
hypotension, abdominal pain, back pain
Key finding of abdominal aortic aneurysm
enlarged, tender aorta
Xray view to evaluate suspected abdominal aortic aneurysm
supine flat plate
imaging that is 98% sensitive for leaking AAA
US
Imaging that is useful in stable patient with AAA
CT with contrast
Severe, visceral pain out of proportion with physical exam in a patient with risk factors
ischemic bowel
