Understanding haematological changes in older patients is crucial for diagnosis and treatment, according to Theresa Lowry-Lehnen. With aging, the haematological system undergoes significant alterations, impacting the management of various haematological disorders. For example, older individuals are predisposed to specific haematological conditions due to changes in red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), platelets, and bone marrow. Anaemia, myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), and clonal haematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) are among the age-associated haematologic disorders, requiring tailored treatment strategies and a careful diagnostic approach. Furthermore, older adults are prone to thrombotic and bleeding disorders, making the management of anticoagulants particularly challenging. Managing haematological complications and malignancies in elderly patients is also a concern. Therapeutic interventions and individualised treatment strategies are crucial for addressing these haematological changes in older patients.
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Haematology changes in geriatric patients require a different diagnostic approach
