Mechanisms and prevention of pneumonia in the elderly

Pneumonia is not only a major cause of death for elderly persons, but also imposes substantial personal morbidity and burdens on the health care system. An understanding of the pathogenesis of this serious illness could allow us to devise methods for curbing the incidence and severity of the disease. Pathophysiological issues and preventative measures are the subject of this review (C) 1998 Tohoku University Medical Press.