The efficacy of the American College of Surgeons Surgical Risk Calculator in the prediction of postoperative complications in oncogeriatric patients after curative surgery for abdominal tumors.

BACKGROUND: The American College of Surgeons (ACS) has developed a Surgical Risk Calculator (SRC) to predict postoperative surgical complications. No studies have reported the performance of the ACS-SRC in oncogeriatric patients. Our objective was to evaluate the predictive performance of the ACS-SRC in these patients, treated with curative surgery for an abdominal malignancy. METHODS: This is a retrospective study including 136 patients who underwent elective abdominal oncological surgery, between 2017 and 2019, at our institution. Postoperative complications were classified according to the ACS-SRC, and its predictive performance was analyzed by assessing discrimination and calibration and using receiver operating characteristics and area under the curve (AUC). RESULTS: Discrimination was adequate with AUC of 0.7113 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.062-1.202, p = 0.0001; Brier 0.198) for serious complications and 0.7230 (95% CI: 1.101-1.756, p = 0.0057; Brier 0.099) for pneumonia; and poor for sepsis, surgical site infection (SSI), and urinary tract infection (UTI) with AUCs of 0.6636 (95% CI: 1.016-1.353, p = 0.0299; Brier 0.142), 0.6167 (95% CI: 1.003-1.266, p = 0.0450; Brier 0.175), and 0.6598 (95% CI: 1.069-2.145, p = 0.0195; Brier 0.082), respectively. CONCLUSION: The ACS-SRC is an adequate predictor for serious complications and pneumonia in oncogeriatric patients treated surgically for abdominal cancer. However, the predictive power of the calculator appears to be low for sepsis, UTI, and SSI.

Evaluation of the Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) tool as a predictor of postoperative complications following major oncological abdominal surgery in geriatric patients.

INTRODUCTION: The concept of frailty extends beyond chronological age. Identifying frailty using a two-step approach, starting with the use of a screening tool (G8) followed by comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA), may be useful in guiding treatment decisions and follow-up. This study evaluated the association between G8 and CGA, and the risk of 90-day postoperative complications risk, in oncogeriatric patients. METHODS: Data on geriatric patients with major oncological abdominal surgery was retrospectively collected from our hospital records between 2016 and 2019. Patients with an impaired G8 screening score, who subsequently underwent CGA geriatric screening, were included. Postoperative complications were classified using the Clavien-Dindo classification (CD), and the Comprehensive Complication Index (CCI). The association between the individual components of the geriatric assessment tools and the 90-day postoperative complications risk was analyzed. RESULTS: One hundred and twelve patients, aged ≥ 70 years, operated for an intra-abdominal tumor with curative intent, were included. Seventy-six patients (67.9%) presented with an impaired G8, out of whom sixty-six (58.9%) had a CGA performed. On univariate analysis, altered nutritional status assessed by the Mini-Nutritional Assessment-Short Form was the only variable associated with higher postoperative total complication rate (p = 0.01). Patients with an impaired G8 had significantly more postoperative complications and higher 1-year mortality rates than patients with normal G8. Fifteen patients (13.4%) had grade III-IVb complications. A CCI > 50 was recorded in 16 patients (14.3%). All-cause 90-day postoperative mortality was 10.7%. CONCLUSION: Identifying an altered preoperative nutritional status, as part of the CGA, in patients screening positive for frailty, is a potentially modifiable risk factor that can enhance preoperative management and optimize treatment decision making. G8 may be a predictive factor for postoperative complications in oncogeriatric patients.

Prostate Cancer and Reactive Haemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis.

We report the case of a 76-year-old man presenting with reactive haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (rHLH) in the setting of disseminated prostate cancer. This often fatal syndrome must be diagnosed early in order to maximize survival. Treatment should be initiated whenever the clinical diagnosis is suspected, even if the HLH-2004 criteria are not met. The HScore is a useful diagnostic tool for rHLH. In case of neurological symptoms, an extensive assessment must be performed. The goal of this case report is to raise awareness of this rare syndrome among oncologists. LEARNING POINTS: The association of prostate cancer and reactive haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (rHLH) has rarely been described.This often fatal syndrome must be recognized early in order to start specific treatment and maximize survival.Specific treatment for rHLH must be accompanied by treatment of the triggering factors.

Sarcoidosis Versus Lymphoma?

An association between lymphoma and sarcoidosis was first suggested in 1960. We report a case of sarcoidosis-lymphoma syndrome, which is a diagnostically challenging condition. We conclude that an associated lymphoma should be considered in all patients with suspected sarcoidosis, especially those who do not respond to treatment or who present with persistent haematological abnormalities. Splenomegaly should prompt splenectomy to rule out lymphoma if a less invasive approach has failed to confirm the diagnosis. LEARNING POINTS: Clinical consideration should be given to an associated lymphoma in all patients with sarcoidosis, especially those who do not respond to treatment or who present with persistent haematological abnormalities.Splenomegaly should raise the possibility of splenectomy to rule out associated lymphoma.

Identifying frailty in clinically fit patients diagnosed with hematological malignancies using a simple clinico-biological screening tool: The HEMA-4 study.

INTRODUCTION: This study aims to develop and validate a simple score to estimate survival in the older population suffering from malignant hemopathies. METHODS: We prospectively recruited 285 patients, aged ≥65 years, admitted to receive chemotherapy. At inclusion, a geriatric assessment was performed. Cox proportional hazards models were performed to assess correlations between vulnerabilities and one-year survival. We developed a frailty score, HEMA-4, based on the most powerful prognostic factors. It was externally confirmed with an independent cohort. RESULTS: In the development cohort, 206 patients were evaluable. Mean age was 76 years (range 65-90). The HEMA-4 score was created based on four independent predictive factors for survival: cognitive impairment (MMSE<27), comorbidities (≥2 on Charlson comorbidity index), CRP (≥10 mg/L) and low albumin level (<35 g/L). The population was stratified into three groups: good prognosis (score = 0-1, n = 141), intermediate prognosis (score = 2, n = 37) and poor prognosis (score = 3-4, n = 28). Their respective one-year survival was 74%, 51% (HR = 2.30; 95% CI =1.31-4.05; p < 0.01) and 36% (HR = 3.95; 95% CI =2.23-6.98; p < 0.01). In the validation cohort (n = 25), the one-year survival was 78% in the good prognosis group (n = 9) and 50% in the intermediate prognosis group (n = 6). The poor prognosis group had a median survival of four months in the development cohort and six months in the validation cohort (n = 10). CONCLUSION: The HEMA-4 score is a simple score that combines cognitive impairment, comorbidities, inflammation and low albumin level. Our data suggest that it predicts survival among older patients suffering from malignant hemopathies referred to receive chemotherapy regardless of their chronological age.

Rare Features of Dermatomyositis in a Patient with Ovarian Cancer.

Despite having a classic presentation of dermatomyositis, a patient with ovarian cancer demonstrated several uncommon features: (i) unexpected onset of dermatomyositis in spite of cancer remission, (ii) development of Evans' syndrome and subcutaneous oedema, and (iii) dysphagia. We discuss the occurrence of these conditions as well as their treatment. LEARNING POINTS: This case illustrates a mode of onset of dermatomyositis that could challenge its classification as a 'paraneoplastic' syndrome, as the dermatomyositis appeared when the patient was in complete metabolic remission.This case also raises questions about the observed relationship between IVIG administration and the onset of subcutaneous oedema and Evans' syndrome.

The Impact of Thyroid Disorders on Clinical Pregnancy Outcomes in a Real-World Study Setting.

Background: Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) and thyroid autoimmunity (TAI) have been associated with poor clinical pregnancy outcomes. However, these outcomes also depend on a number of demographic and obstetric variables. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the impact of thyroid disorders on these outcomes, after adjustment for associated demographic and obstetrical parameters. Methods: This is cross-sectional study including 1521 pregnant women who underwent work-up and follow-up in the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Saint-Pierre, Brussels, and had ongoing pregnancies. Thyroid function (thyrotropin [TSH], free thyroxine [fT4]) and TAI (thyroid peroxidase antibodies) was determined at median (Q1-Q3) 13 (11-17) weeks. Baseline parameters and the prevalence of poor clinical pregnancy outcomes were compared between controls (no TAI and TSH <2.51 mIU/L) and three study groups (isolated TAI [TSH <2.51 mIU/L], SCH1 [TSH 2.51-3.7 mIU/L], SCH2 [TSH >3.7 mIU/L]). The impact of the different thyroid groups and demographic/obstetric independent variables on six poor clinical pregnancy outcomes (preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction [IUGR], preterm birth, neonatal intensive care unit [NICU] admission, low birth weight, and macrosomia) was investigated in a logistic regression model. Treatment with thyroid hormone before and during pregnancy and assisted and multiple pregnancies were exclusion criteria. Results: In total, 79 preeclampsias (5.2%), 40 IUGRs (2.6%), 79 preterm births (5.2%), 10 admissions to NICU (0.66%), 74 low birth weights (4.9%), and 94 babies with macrosomia (6.2%) were documented. TAI was independently associated with NICU admission (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 16.92 confidence interval [CI 3.36-85.29]; p < 0.001) and TSH, as a continuous variable in the whole range, with preeclampsia (aOR 1.97 [CI 1.18-3.31]; p = 0.010). Trends were present for an association between SCH2 and preeclampsia (aOR 16.73 [CI 1.43-196.42]; p = 0.025), and for SCH1with NICU admission and low birth weight (aOR 19.36 [CI 1.18-316.97]; p = 0.038 and 21.38 [CI 1.29-353.39]; p = 0.032, respectively). Conclusions: Pregnant women with TAI had a significantly higher risk of an admission of the baby to the NICU, and SCH tended to be associated with a higher risk of preeclampsia and low birth weight. Other poor clinical pregnancy outcomes were not associated with thyroid disorders, but with demographic and obstetric parameters.

Analysis of inflammatory markers and hormones in old cancer patients: A descriptive study.

Advanced cancers are associated with a chronic inflammation, especially high interleukin-6 (IL-6) and with various levels of adipokines (leptin and adiponectin), while ghrelin counteracts the anorexigenic effect of leptin in cancer-induced anorexia-cachexia syndrome. We aimed to understand how IL-6, adipokines and ghrelin plasma levels could be influenced by cancer on the one hand, and by age, frailty, and nutritional status in old cancer patients on the other hand. Ninety-nine patients aged 79[76-83] years old were included. Sixty-six percent had advanced stages of cancer, and 34% had cachexia. Fifty percent were at risk of malnutrition, and 10% had overt malnutrition. None of the variables studied was significantly correlated with the advanced stage, or cachexia. In multiple regression, the only parameter significantly and positively associated with age was adiponectin (p = 0.008). Despite a high prevalence of frailty in our study, we did not find any independent association of frailty (assessed by G8) with IL-6, leptin, adiponectin, or ghrelin in multivariate analysis. We observed that a low albumin level was independently associated with a higher level of IL-6 (p < 0.0001), but not with the MNA score. However, leptin showed a positive correlation with BMI (p < 0.0001), confirming the persistence of a relationship between leptin and adiposity, even in older cancer patients. Finally, high IL-6 level was associated with a higher mortality rate (p = 0.027). In conclusion, IL-6, leptin, adiponectin, and ghrelin are not associated with advanced stages of cancer or cancer-induced cachexia in older subjects with cancer, but they are significantly correlated with anthropometric factors and body composition.

Advances in pain management for older patients with cancer.

The population of older patients is growing with a rising prevalence of cancer diagnoses and cancer-related pain syndromes. Older patients are also vulnerable to misleading pain evaluations and under treatment with opioids. Barriers to the effective and safe management of analgesics include pain assessments and the complex management of the best analgesic choice and dose-titration while achieving the fewest side effects. In this review, we will provide an overview of the challenges present in assessment and treatment choices, along with practical tips for routine clinical practice.

White blood cell counts in a geriatric hospitalized population: A poor diagnostic marker of infection.

INTRODUCTION: Older people suffer more often and from more severe infections than do younger people. Several studies have shown a correlation between higher white blood cell count (WBCC) and the presence of infection. The usefulness of increased WBCC to assess the presence of infection in geriatric patients is debated. To answer this question, we investigated the correlation between the total and differential WBCC and documented infection in hospitalized geriatric individuals. POPULATION AND METHODS: Clinical data (medical history, comorbidities, treatments, geriatric syndromes) and biological parameters were collected from 166 hospitalized geriatric patients (67-106 yrs) presenting with acute inflammation (C-reactive protein (CRP) > 10 mg/l) and were compared according to the presence/absence of infection. RESULTS: The mean WBCC was not significantly different (p = 0.71) according to the presence of infection or not, although the mean CRP level was higher in the infected group compared to the non-infected group (p = 0.0019). In regression analyses, the presence of infection was not associated with an increase in total and differential WBCC. Additionally, we found a positive correlation between cardiovascular risk factor and diseases (CVRF & diseases) and WBCC. CONCLUSION: In geriatric patients, WBCC is not a reliable biomarker for infection; however, combined with CRP, it represents a marker of cardiovascular disorders.

Baseline hepcidin measurement in the differential diagnosis of anaemia for elderly patients and its correlation with the increment of transferrin saturation following an oral iron absorption test.

Background Anaemia is often multifactorial in the elderly, with a frequent association between iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) and anaemia of chronic disease (ACD). The primary objective of our study was to investigate whether baseline hepcidin measurement could be useful for identifying iron deficiency (ID) in anaemic elderly patients. The secondary objective was to assess whether baseline hepcidin concentrations correlated with the relative increase of transferrin saturation (TS) after an oral iron absorption test (OIAT). Methods Blood samples were collected between 7:30 am and 10:00 am in 328 geriatric outpatients, 102 underwent the OIAT. Types of anaemia were classified according biochemical and clinical criteria. TS and hepcidin were measured at baseline and 4 h after the iron dose. The ability of baseline hepcidin measurement to highlight ID in elderly anaemic patients was assessed using a receiver operator curve (ROC) analysis. Correlations between baseline hepcidin levels and the increment of TS following the OIAT were investigated using the Spearman coefficient. Results Among 328 included patients, 78 (23.8%) suffered from anaemia; 13 (4.0%), 19 (5.8%), 27 (8.2%) and 19 (5.8%) patients fulfilled criteria for IDA, IDA/ACD, ACD and unexplained anaemia, respectively. By multivariable analysis, creatinine, C-reactive protein, ferritin, Delta TS and Delta hepcidin were independently associated with baseline hepcidin concentrations. The area under the ROC curve (95% confidence interval) was 0.900 (0.830-0.970) for baseline hepcidin measurement. Baseline hepcidin levels correlated negatively with the relative increase in TS with a Spearman coefficient of -0.742. Conclusions Baseline hepcidin levels could be a useful tool to identify ID in anaemic elderly patients and may predict acute iron response following OIAT.

Pregnancy outcomes are not altered by variation in thyroid function within the normal range in women free of thyroid disease.

OBJECTIVE: In the recently revised guidelines on the management of thyroid dysfunction during pregnancy, treatment with thyroid hormone (LT4) is not recommended in women without thyroid autoimmunity (TAI) and TSH levels in the range 2.5-4.0 mIU/L, and in a recent study in that particular group of pregnant women, more complications were observed when a treatment with LT4 was given. The objective of the study was therefore to investigate whether variation in thyroid function within the normal (non-pregnant) range in women free of thyroid disease was associated with altered pregnancy outcomes? DESIGN: Cross-sectional data analysis of 1321 pregnant women nested within an ongoing prospective collection of pregnant women's data in a single centre in Brussels, Belgium. METHODS: Thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO-abs), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free T4 (FT4) and ferritin levels were measured and baseline characteristics were recorded. Women taking LT4, with TAI and thyroid function outside the normal non-pregnant range were excluded. Pregnancy outcomes and baseline characteristics were correlated with all TSH and FT4 levels within the normal range and compared between two groups (TSH cut-off < and ≥2.5 mIU/L). RESULTS: Tobacco use was associated with higher serum TSH levels (OR: 1.38; CI 95%: 1.08-1.74); P = 0.009. FT4 levels were inversely correlated with age and BMI (rho = -0.096 and -0.089; P < 0.001 and 0.001 respectively) and positively correlated with ferritin levels (rho = 0.097; P < 0.001). Postpartum haemorrhage (>500 mL) was inversely associated with serum FT4 levels (OR: 0.35; CI 95%: 0.13-0.96); P = 0.040. Also 10% of women free of thyroid disease had serum TSH levels ≥2.5 mIU/L. CONCLUSIONS: Variation in thyroid function during the first trimester within the normal (non-pregnant) range in women free of thyroid disease was not associated with altered pregnancy outcomes. These results add evidence to the recommendation against LT4 treatment in pregnant women with high normal TSH levels and without TPO antibodies.

Maternal thyroid parameters in pregnant women with different ethnic backgrounds: Do ethnicity-specific reference ranges improve the diagnosis of subclinical hypothyroidism?

OBJECTIVE: Guidelines on the management of thyroid dysfunction during pregnancy have recently been updated and, for the diagnosis of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH), a thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) upper reference limit (cut-off) of 4.0 mIU/L has been proposed when no institutional values are available. It is also suggested that serum TSH and thyroid autoimmunity (TAI) may be different according to the ethnic background of the women. We therefore determined the prevalence of TAI and SCH in pregnant women with different ethnic backgrounds and, to define SCH, we used different first trimester TSH upper reference cut-offs (institutional, ethnicity-specific, 2.5 mIU/L [Endocrine Society] and 4.0 mIU/L [American Thyroid Association]). DESIGN: Cross-sectional data analysis of 1683 pregnant women nested within an ongoing prospective database of pregnant women. METHOD: The study was performed in a single centre in Brussels, Belgium. During the first antenatal visit, thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO-abs), TSH and free T4 (FT4) were measured and baseline characteristics recorded. Data from 481 women with sub-Saharan (SaBg; 28.6%), 754 North African (NaBg; 44.8%) and 448 Caucasian (CaBg; 26.6%) backgrounds were analysed. For the calculation of TSH reference ranges, women with TAI, outliers, twin and assisted pregnancies were excluded. RESULTS: The prevalence of TAI was significantly lower in the SaBg group than in NaBg and CaBg groups (3.3% vs 8.6% and 11.1%; P<.001, respectively). Median TSH was significantly lower in SaBg and NaBg groups as compared with the CaBg group (1.3 and 1.4 vs 1.5 mIU/L; P=.006 and .014, respectively). The prevalence of women with SCH was comparable between all groups when 2.5 mIU/L was used as cut-off, but when 4.0 mIU/L or the institutional cut-off (3.74 mIU/L) was used, it was significantly higher in the CaBg group vs the NaBg group (5.4% vs 2.1% and 7.1% vs 3.3%, P=.008 and .013, respectively). The use of ethnicity-specific cut-offs did not change the prevalence of SCH as compared to the use of institutional cut-offs. However, when these cut-offs were used, the prevalence of SCH reduced by >70% (4.5% instead of 16.7%; P<.001) relative to the 2.5 mIU/L cut-off. CONCLUSIONS: Pregnant women with a sub-Saharan African background had a lower prevalence of TAI and TSH levels as compared with women from other backgrounds. The use of ethnicity-specific TSH cut-offs in early pregnancy was not more specific for the diagnosis of SCH as compared to the use of the institutional cut-off.

Prevalence of thyroid dysfunction and autoimmunity in the older population and implications of age-specific reference ranges.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction and autoimmunity (TAI) and to determine age-specific reference ranges in individuals <60 and ≥60-year-old. Furthermore we investigated the impact of the age-specific reference ranges on the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction. DESIGN: Retrospective analysis of laboratory data collected over six months in 2015, mainly from individuals consulting the outpatient clinic. METHOD: Data from 676 individuals were withheld, after having applied strict exclusion criteria to avoid confounders. After exclusion of individuals with TAI (TPO-abs >60kIU/L) and/or outliers, data of 547 individuals were used to determine age-specific reference ranges. The prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) and subclinical hyperthyroidism (sch) was determined according to the reference ranges from the commercial assay and also according to the calculated age-specific reference ranges. From our study population. RESULTS: From the 676 individuals included, 559 (83%) were <60year-old and 117 (17%) ≥60year-old. The prevalence of sch and TAI was comparable between both groups (8.6% vs. 13.7% and 15.4% vs. 20.5% respectively). The prevalence of SCH was significantly higher in individuals ≥60years, compared to that in individuals <60years (14.5% vs. 5.4%; p<0.001). The calculated 2.5 and 97.5 percentile for the age-specific TSH range was 0.24 and 4.4 mIU/L in individuals <60years and 0.15 and 8.2mIU/L in individuals ≥60years. When these the prevalence of sch and SCH was then determined on the basis of the age-specific reference ranges, the prevalence of SCH significantly decreased in individuals ≥60years (14.5% to 5%; p=0.027) and it then became comparable with that in individuals <60years (5% vs. 3%). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of SCH was higher in individuals ≥60years, compared to that in individuals <60years, but when age-specific TSH reference ranges were used, it was comparable between both study groups. In order to avoid misclassification in older individuals, it is important to use age-specific reference ranges in daily clinical practice.

Dysphagia: a geriatric syndrome?

Dysphagia is a common condition in the elderly but often not systematically explored. The "geriatric syndromes" refer to the multifactorial health conditions that occur when the cumulative effects of functional disorders of multiple systems make an individual vulnerable to face the challenges of situations. This article assumes that dysphagia is a geriatric syndrome and provides arguments in favor of it. In this context its' approach requires screening followed by an interdisciplinary management involving various professional geriatric teams.

Prevalence of thyroid autoimmunity and dysfunction in women with iron deficiency during early pregnancy: is it altered?

OBJECTIVE: Thyroid disorders and iron deficiency (ID) are associated with obstetrical and fetal complications. Iron is essential for the normal functioning of thyroid peroxidase (TPO-abs) and ID is frequent during pregnancy. The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence of thyroid autoimmunity (TAI) and dysfunction during the first trimester of pregnancy in women with and without ID. DESIGN: Cross-sectional data analysis of 1900 pregnant women nested within an ongoing prospective collection of pregnant women's data. METHOD: The study was performed in a single, tertiary referral center. During the first antenatal visit, ferritin, TPO-abs, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free T4 (FT4) were measured and age and BMI were recorded. ID was defined as ferritin <15µg/L, TAI when TPO-abs was >60kIU/L, and subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) when TSH was >2.5mIU/L. RESULTS: ID was present in 35% of women. Age and BMI were comparable between both groups. In the ID group, the prevalence of TAI and SCH was significantly higher, compared with that in the non-ID group (10% vs 6% and 20% vs 16%; P=0.011 and 0.049 respectively). Ferritin was inversely correlated with serum TSH (ρ=-0.076; P=0.001) and positive with FT4 levels (ρ=0.112; P<0.001). In the logistic regression model, ID remained associated with TAI after correction for confounding factors (P=0.017). The association with SCH was absent after correction for the confounders in the logistic regression model (P=0.082), but remained present in the linear regression model (P=0.035). CONCLUSIONS: ID was frequent during the first trimester of pregnancy and was associated with a higher prevalence of TAI, higher serum TSH, and lower FT4 levels.

Comprehensive geriatric assessment and comorbidities predict survival in geriatric oncology.

OBJECTIVES: The comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) can detect geriatric problems and potentially improve survival, physical, and cognitive state of patients, as well as increase an older person's chances of staying at home longer. In older people, the number and severity of comorbidity increase with age and are an important determinant of survival. The aim of the study was to assess to which extent CGA and comorbidities could be seen as determinants of survival. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study analyzed data from two hospitals that included geriatric assessments of patients aged 70 years and more with cancer linked to mortality. Logistic regression was used to model survival predictors. RESULTS: Two hundred and five various cancer patients (47% females) with a median age of 79 were included. They presented with a lot of undiagnosed geriatric problems. Screening scales (G8, SEGA), cognitive, and psychological disorders, and low albumin levels appeared to be independent survival factors. A frailty profile classification was associated with higher mortality. The average comorbidity was graded 2 according to the Charlson scale. By the geriatric cumulative illness rating scale (CIRS-G), the arithmetic average number of affected organ systems was 5 (range 0-10) in all patients. Cardiovascular disorders were the most common comorbidity. Renal insufficiency and anaemia were negatively associated with survival. CONCLUSION: Old cancer patients present a lot of comorbidities and newly diagnosed geriatric problems. Several tools provide determinants of survival in old cancer patients. Prospective trials evaluating the utility of a CGA to guide interventions to improve quality of cancer care in older adults are justified.

Drugs prescribed for patients hospitalized in a geriatric oncology unit: Potentially inappropriate medications and impact of a clinical pharmacist.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of potentially inappropriate medication (PIM) use upon admission and at discharge in a geriatric oncology unit after involving a clinical pharmacist. Although the few studies conducted in geriatric oncology units used the 2003 Beers criteria, this study used START and STOPP criteria, a more appropriate tool for European formularies. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Prospective study in older (≥70years) patients consecutively admitted to a geriatric oncology unit in a cancer center from July 2011 to April 2012. Clinical pharmacist conducted a complete comprehensive medication review including non-prescription and complementary (herbals) medications. This information coupled with the patient's medical history allows identifying PIMs using the STOPP and START criteria. The number of PIMs at admission and at discharge from the hospital was compared after clinical pharmacist intervention. RESULTS: Ninety-one older patients with cancer (mean age±SD=79±6years) were included in the study. START criteria identified 41 PIMs for 31 persons (34%) at admission compared to 7 PIMs for 6 persons (7%) at discharge. STOPP criteria identified 50 PIMs at admission for 29 persons (32%) compared to 16 PIMs at discharge for 14 persons (16%). Results showed significantly lower START scores at discharge than at admission (p<0.001); similarly, STOPP criteria demonstrated fewer PIMs at discharge than at admission (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: The use of START and STOPP criteria by a clinical pharmacist allows identifying PIMs and changing prescriptions for older patients with cancer in agreement with the oncologist and geriatrician of the team.

[Cost evaluation of hospital inpatient stays induced by injuries due to falls for elderly people]. / Évaluation économique des lésions associées aux chutes des personnes âgées vivant à domicile.

Thirty percent of people aged 65 and older, living at home fall at least once a year. Few economic data are available in Belgium on this issue. We evaluated the cost borne by social security. 823 inpatient stays aged 65 and more, from home and admitted for injuries after a fall were selected. We observe an average (SD) age of 81 years. The proportion of women is 76%. 75% of admissions are related to fractures. 18% of patients are 'institutionalized' after falls. The death rate is 6%. The median (Q1-Q3) of cost is € 4.182 (2.385-6.820), for a length of stay median (Q1-Q3) of 11 days (4-25). The cost of hospital stays is estimated at €135 millions. Based on population projections, the cost could be estimated at € 243 millions in 2050. The overall cost of the treatment of these lesions is much more important, because costs are also generated after the hospitalization.

Study of the association of total and differential white blood cell counts with geriatric conditions, cardio-vascular diseases, seric IL-6 levels and telomere length.

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Geriatric patients are highly susceptible to infections. While reduced lymphocyte count has been associated with age, other studies found no change in WBC counts with age. Increased circulating white blood cell (WBC) count has been associated with cardiovascular (CV) diseases and frailty but there are discrepancies. Frailty, geriatric conditions, cardiovascular diseases and WBC count have also been associated with low grade inflammation. Association between geriatric conditions and WBC has been scarcely studied. The aim of the study is to assess the association between WBC and geriatric conditions, CV diseases, and seric IL-6 levels. DESIGN, SETTING, PARTICIPANTS, MEASUREMENTS: We recruited 100 subjects in the general population and hospitalized for chronic medical conditions (age, 23-96years). We collected information on clinical status (medical history, comorbidities, treatments and geriatric syndromes), biological parameters (hematological tests, cytomegalovirus serology) and cytokine production (basal IL-6). Using stepwise backward multivariate analyses, we defined which set of clinical and biological variables could be predictive of increased total and differential WBC counts. RESULTS: We found that low-grade inflammation is independently associated with total WBC, monocyte and neutrophil counts, but not geriatric conditions. CV diseases were the only significant associated factor for high monocyte count. CONCLUSION: In this study, we observed that differential and total WBC counts do not seem to be associated with geriatric conditions but with CV diseases, low-grade inflammation and telomere length.