Empyema vs pleural effusion are both conditions affecting the pleural space in the chest, but they differ in their nature and causes. Pleural effusion involves the accumulation of excess fluid in the pleural cavity, the space between the lungs and chest wall. This fluid buildup can result from various conditions like infections, heart failure, or cancer. On the other hand, empyema specifically refers to a pleural effusion caused by a bacterial infection, usually stemming from pneumonia. Empyema is characterized by the presence of pus in the pleural space, indicating a more severe and infectious component compared to a standard pleural effusion.
Causes of Empyema
According to Dr. Harsh Vardhan Puri, a leading thoracic surgeon in Delhi, these are the major causesfor empyema:
Pneumonia: When pneumonia is not treated properly or spreads to other parts of the body, it can lead to empyema.
Lung Abscesses: This occurs when pus-filled pockets form in the lungs and become infected, leading to empyema.
Chest Trauma: Any injury or trauma to the chest can cause damage to the lungs and increase the risk of developing empyema.
Surgery: Sometimes, surgery on the chest or organs adjacent to it can introduce bacteria into the pleural space and cause empyema.
IV Drug Use: People who inject drugs directly into their bloodstream are at a higher risk of developing infections that can lead to empyema.
Immune System Disorders: People with weakened immune systems are particularly prone to developing empyema.
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