Older patients exhibit distinct characteristics compared to younger individuals

Pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis, the two main forms of venous thromboembolic disease (VTE), are more prevalent in older adults, although no one is completely immune. Scientific research has consistently shown that age is a significant risk factor. With increasing life expectancy worldwide, researchers affiliated with the RIETE registry have investigated the characteristics of VTE in individuals over 70 years old.

A recent study published in Archivos de Bronconeumología analyzed data from 100,000 patients in the RIETE registry. The study’s authors compared the traits of individuals with VTE based on whether they were older or younger than 70. The findings are as follows:

• VTE in those over 70 is more common in women (58%) than in men (42%)
• In half of the cases, VTE occurred without any known risk factor
• 54% of these older individuals experienced a pulmonary embolism, while 44% had deep vein thrombosis
• 10% of those over 70 with VTE also suffered from renal insufficiency
• Mortality and bleeding complications were more frequent in the older age group within 30 days, though VTE recurrence rates were not higher

The study also examined the nature of pulmonary embolism specifically in those over 70:

• The disease often presents with considerable severity
• Many patients also experienced respiratory failure and heart damage in addition to pulmonary embolism

The authors conclude that the characteristics of VTE and pulmonary embolism in individuals over 70 differ significantly from those in younger patients, highlighting the need for age-specific medical care and treatment.