Empyema

Abstract Empyema is becoming more common and occurs most frequently following a streptococcal or staphylococcal pneumonia. A chest X-ray, ultrasonography, and, in selected circumstances, a CT scan will enable the disease to be accurately evaluated and will guide management. The aim of treatment is to clear infected material from the pleural cavity; this may involve mechanical or chemical debridement of the pleural cavity. A video-assisted thoracoscopic procedure or thoracotomy is required where fibrinolytic treatment has failed, and as primary treatment in complicated empyema.