Empyema
Introduction
'Empyema' is the medical term for pockets of pus that have collected inside a body cavity.
They canform ifa bacterial infection is left untreated, or if it fails to fully respond to treatment.
The term 'empyema' is most commonly used to refer to pus-filled pockets that develop in the pleural space. This is the slim space between the outsideof the lungs and the inside of the chest cavity.
Empyema isa serious condition which requires treatment. It can cause fever, chest pains, breathlessnessand coughing up mucussee What are the symptoms?
Although it can occasionally be life-threatening, it's not a common condition, as most bacterial infections are effectively treated with antibiotics before they get to this stage.
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 24 Nov 2016
Introduction
NHS Choices information on empyema, the medical term for pockets of pus that have collected inside a body cavity. With links to other useful resources.
What causesempyema?
The lungs and inside of the chest cavity are lined with a smooth layer called the pleura. These layers are almost in contact, but separated by athin space the pleural space filled with a small amount
What are the symptoms?
An empyema can bedistressing and uncomfortable. It can cause: a fever and night sweats a lack of energy difficulty breathing weight loss chest pain a cough, and coughing up mucus containing pus
How is it diagnosed?
An empyema is usually suspected when a person with severe pneumonia does not improve with treatment, and they start to show some of the above symptoms. If the patient is coughing up mucus,a sample of
How is it treated?
Antibiotics given via a drip Some patients will just need antibiotics given intravenously (directly into a vein through a drip). However, they may need to stay in hospital for a long period. Ches
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