Abstract |
Empyema is a frankly purulent infection of the pleural space most often occurring secondary to parapneumonic effusion. Imaging, specifically contrast-enhanced computed tomography, plays a critical role in diagnosis with a "split pleura" sign being highly suggestive in the appropriate clinical setting. Diagnostic thoracentesis with culture and Gram stain further guides appropriate antibiotic therapy. Therapeutic drainage with small-bore tube thoracostomy has been shown to be a safe and effective treatment of early stage empyema. Augmentation of tube placement with intrapleural fibrinolytics and mucolytics facilitates catheter drainage by degrading loculations and decreasing fluid viscosity, respectively.
|
Authors | Osman Ahmed, Steven Zangan |
Journal | Seminars in interventional radiology
(Semin Intervent Radiol)
Vol. 29
Issue 3
Pg. 226-30
(Sep 2012)
ISSN: 0739-9529 [Print] United States |
PMID | 23997416
(Publication Type: Journal Article)
|