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A Phenomenon in Geriatric Patients

Richard Gleckman, MD; Debra Hibert

JAMA. 1982;248(12):1478-1481.

Abstract
A prospective study was performed in 25 elderly patients who experienced afebrile bacteremia during a 1.5-year interval. An explanation for the afebrile state was explored. Subtle findings, such as unexplained alterations in mental status or presence of leukocytosis, proved to be invaluable guides for performing blood cultures. Afebrile nosocomial bacteremias usually occurred as a complication of a malignant process or an intravascular catheter, and these episodes were invariably fatal.

(JAMA 1982;248:1478-1481)

Author Affiliations
From the Division of Infectious Diseases, Saint Vincent Hospital, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester.

Footnotes
Reprint requests to Division of Infectious Diseases, Saint Vincent Hospital, 25 Winthrop St, Worcester, MA 01604 (Dr Gleckman).

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