Thoracic empyema: Difference between revisions

All cases with suspected pneumonia should undergo routine [[chest radiography]] to confirm the diagnosis with the presence of consolidations. A pleural effusion (which is not know to be an empyema at this point) can be visible on the x-ray. From there, [[ultrasound]] or [[CT]] may be used to assess the pleural fluid further and to guide [[thoracocentesis]]. Only thoracocentesis and analysis of the fluid can prove that the fluid is an empyema. The fluid should be cultured for bacteria. Biochemical analysis can prove that the fluid is an empyema and not another form of effusion. The following findings of the fluid confirms that it is an empyema: