The pleural cavity is the virtual space between the lungs and the chest. Empyema occurs when bacteria enter this cavity.
These can cause a build-up of infected fluid. The most common cause is a lung infection. The patient has a fever, is short of breath, is tired and has little appetite.
Treatment with antibiotics alone is of little use. You will be referred to a surgeon for drainage of the fluid. How this is done depends on your underlying condition and your general condition. Preferably, keyhole surgery or thoracoscopy will be performed. If this is not possible, a thoracic drain can be inserted under local anaesthetic.
Your doctor will discuss the treatment options with you.
