Definition – What is a pleural empyema?
The translation of the technical term “pleural empyema” means an accumulation of pus in the pleura. The pleura describes an envelope of the lungs, which consists of two leaves. The lung itself is covered by a thin leaf of the pleura, the so-called “visceral pleura”.
From the outside, it is covered by the “pleura parietalis”, which is attached to the chest wall and the inner ribs. Between them is a cavity containing a negative pressure and small amounts of a lubricating fluid. The undamaged negative pressure in the pleura allows the lungs to unfold and thus the inhalation and exhalation processes to take place. Pus in this area indicates an inflammation, which can take on dangerous progressions due to the obstruction of breathing and the proximity to vital chest organs.
- Structure of the pleura
- What is an empyema?
I recognize a pleural empyema by these symptoms
The pleural empyema is only a consequence of underlying inflammation and pre-existing conditions. As a rule, the underlying diseases cause symptoms that also make one think of a pleural empyema. These include, above all, coughing with sputum, shortness of breath, rales when breathing, high fever, chest pain and a greatly reduced general condition.
These are above all the symptoms of acute pneumonia, which is the most common cause of pleural empyema. The empyema itself can aggravate chest pain and shortness of breath, as the increased fluid accumulation around the lungs can limit the expansion of the lungs and thus hinder breathing. On the other hand, a slight accumulation of pus when the pneumonia has subsided can be asymptomatic. Since a pleural empyema is very much associated with pneumonia and the symptoms are very similar, it is recommended to also take a look at the following page: What are the symptoms of pneumonia?
What do pleural empyema and pleural effusion have in common?
Pleural effusion is the term used to describe all fluid accumulations between the two leaves of the pleura. In addition to pus, this can primarily be water and blood, which can be attributed to numerous causes. Empyema is only a relatively rare form of pleural effusion.
The most common cause of fluid accumulation in the pleura is heart failure. Such effusions can be detected in the X-ray image from a volume of about 250ml. Punctures of the effusion are only rarely necessary, since the fluid can resorb itself in many cases. An overview with the most important information about pleural effusion can be found here:
- What is a pleural effusion?
- Water in the lungs – What you can do about it
