Collection of pus in chest

Description

Empyema is a production of pus in body cavities, and mostly in the chest. The pus is being developed between the lungs and thorax, which may cause impaired lung function. The bacterium, which causes the pus production, is harmful to whole organism.

Symptoms

Chest pain, fever, shortness of breath, weakness, fatigue, night sweating, low blood pressure, hypoxia (reduced oxygen level).

Overview

Anamnesis is being taken and physical examination is being done. Chest X-rays imaging and CT scan can be done to determine amount of pus. Smear of the pus sample is taken to determine type of bacterium which caused the infection. Pus is taken with a needle being inserted into a chest (thoracic drainage).

Tests

Complete blood count (CBC), biochemical blood analysis, CT scan, ultrasound and X-rays.

Additional analyses

Thoracic drainage, smear of the pus, bacteriological blood analysis.

Specialists

Pulmology

Therapy

Pus drainage is being recommended, which is usually done by the insertion of tube in the chest (thoracostomy). Decortication of pleura should sometimes be done. Antibiotics are prescribed to destroy bacteria.