Cytological characteristics, elemental composition of alveolar macrophages from bronchoalveolar lavage, lung pathology in liquidators of the consequences of the accident at the Chernobyl power plant

Tuberculosis is an ancient disease which has had a resurgence in the United States. Many elderly clients were exposed to tuberculosis as children and young adults and are still carrying the infection today. This article describes tuberculosis as it affects the elderly client in community and nursing home settings. The history, etiology, clinical manifestations, treatment, and prevention of tuberculosis infection and disease are presented. Because nurses can be very instrumental in controlling tuberculosis in the elderly, gerontological nursing implications are discussed.