New Onset Diabetes in an Older Patient: An Unforeseen Phenomenon

Sr Care Pharm. 2022 Oct 1;37(10):495-498. doi: 10.4140/TCP.n.2022.495.

Abstract

In this case, an 86-year-old man with a history of recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) is brought to the emergency room with altered mental status (AMS) and frequent falls. According to the patient's son, the patient had a significant decline and became more dependent in both his regular and instrumental activities of daily living. Upon admission, the patient was found to be in a hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state and eventually diagnosed with diabetes. A review of the patient's medications indicated that polypharmacy may be a contributing factor to his current mental status changes and falls. In addition, this case reviews the diagnosis of diabetes in an 86-year-old while reviewing the impact of polypharmacy in an older patient.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Activities of Daily Living
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Diabetes Mellitus* / diagnosis
  • Emergency Service, Hospital
  • Humans
  • Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar Nonketotic Coma*
  • Male
  • Polypharmacy