Empyema: Causes, Symptoms and Surgical Treatment

What Is Empyema?

Empyema is a condition in which pus collects in the pleural space, the area between the lungs and the inner chest wall. It commonly develops as a complication of pneumonia, although other infections and medical conditions can also cause it.

Timely empyema diagnosis and empyema treatment are important to control the infection and help the lungs function properly.

What Causes Empyema?

Common causes and contributing factors include:

•     Complications of pneumonia
•     Bacterial infections of the chest
•     Lung abscesses that extend into the pleural space
•     Certain chest procedures or surgeries
•     Other infections affecting the pleural cavity

The exact cause is determined through clinical evaluation and appropriate investigations.

What Are the Symptoms of Empyema?

Symptoms can vary depending on the stage and severity of the infection. Common signs include:

•     Fever and chills
•     Chest pain, especially during deep breathing
•     Shortness of breath
•     Persistent cough
•     Fatigue and weakness

Anyone experiencing worsening breathlessness, persistent fever or significant chest pain should seek prompt medical evaluation.

How Is Empyema Diagnosed?

Doctors may recommend a chest X-ray, ultrasound or CT scan to identify fluid around the lungs. A sample of the pleural fluid may also be collected and tested to identify the infection and guide treatment.

How Is Empyema Treated?

Empyema Treatment depends on the amount of infected fluid, the stage of the disease and the patient’s overall health.

Management may include antibiotics and drainage of the infected fluid using a chest tube. In more advanced cases, video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) or another surgical procedure may be needed to remove infected material and, when appropriate, the restrictive tissue surrounding the lung.

Surgery is not necessary for every patient. The treatment plan should be individualized after specialist assessment.

Why Is Early Treatment Important?

Delayed treatment can lead to complications, including thickening of the pleura and restricted lung expansion. Early assessment can help guide treatment before the condition progresses.

Consult Dr. Harsh Vardhan Puri, Senior Consultant Thoracic & Lung Transplant Surgeon at Medanta – The Medicity Hospital, for specialist evaluation of complex thoracic conditions.