Overview
Empyema is the accumulation of pus in the pleural cavity, the space between the lungs and the chest wall, usually due to infection or pneumonia.
Symptoms
Chest pain Fever and chills Cough, sometimes producing pus or blood Shortness of breath Fatigue and malaise
Causes
Bacterial infections, commonly following pneumonia Complications of lung surgery or trauma Spread from nearby infections (e.g., abscess)
Diagnosis
Chest X-ray or CT scan Ultrasound to detect fluid accumulation Thoracentesis to obtain fluid for laboratory analysis
Treatment
Antibiotics to treat the underlying infection Drainage of pus using a chest tube or surgery Pulmonary rehabilitation and supportive care
Complications
Lung collapse or scarring Sepsis or bloodstream infection Chronic respiratory problems
Prevention
Prompt treatment of pneumonia and respiratory infections Good hygiene and vaccination where applicable Follow-up care after lung surgery or trauma