Empyema

Empyema occurs when bacterial infection, most commonly following pneumonia, leads to the formation of pus in the pleural cavity. This collection can restrict lung expansion and breathing, causing respiratory distress and systemic infection.

Empyema can be:

• Simple (uncomplicated) – thin fluid collection with little inflammation

• Complicated – thick, infected pus with septations (compartments)

• Organizing stage – formation of scar tissue, requiring surgical intervention