Empyema
|
| Definition |
An empyema is infected fluid that
collects in the pleural space (the space around the lung).
|
| Causes |
The most common cause of an empyema
is pneumonia. Pneumonia frequently causes a pleural effusion (fluid
around the lung). The pleural effusion or fluid around the lung may
have germs or bacteria growing in the fluid. When this happens the
fluid is called an empyema. An empyema may occur after surgery of
the lung or chest.
|
| Treatment |
Before treatment the doctor will
have to test the fluid around the lung is see if it is an empyema.
Placing a needle into the fluid and sending it for testing does
this. An empyema is treated with antibiotics and drainage. The
drainage may be done with a chest tube. Usually these chest tubes
remain in place for a prolonged period of time. Some patients
require surgery to fully drain the fluid.
|
| Comments |
An empyema is a serious condition
that needs medical attention and treatment quickly. If left
untreated an empyema will make the patient very sick and even
possibly lead to death.
|
| Related
Links |
National Library of Medicine
The National Library of Medicine website provides consumer
information on empyema.
|
ICU Medical Conditions 
