Empyema is best described as which type of pleural effusion?

Empyema is best described as which type of pleural effusion?

• A. Transudative effusion due to CHF
• B. Pus-filled pleural effusion
• C. Chylous effusion
• D. Hemothorax

Answer: (B)

Empyema is a pus-filled pleural effusion resulting from infection of the pleural space. It represents an exudative process, often developing after pneumonia or other pleural infection, with purulent fluid that may show extremely low pH and low glucose due to bacterial and neutrophil activity. This distinguishes it from noninfectious fluid accumulations like transudates seen in congestive heart failure, which are due to systemic pressure imbalances and tend to be watery with lower protein content. A chylous effusion comes from lymphatic leakage and has a milky appearance with high triglycerides, not pus. A hemothorax is blood in the pleural space, usually from trauma or vascular injury. So the description of a pus-filled pleural effusion best defines empyema.

Empyema is a pus-filled pleural effusion resulting from infection of the pleural space. It represents an exudative process, often developing after pneumonia or other pleural infection, with purulent fluid that may show extremely low pH and low glucose due to bacterial and neutrophil activity. This distinguishes it from noninfectious fluid accumulations like transudates seen in congestive heart failure, which are due to systemic pressure imbalances and tend to be watery with lower protein content. A chylous effusion comes from lymphatic leakage and has a milky appearance with high triglycerides, not pus. A hemothorax is blood in the pleural space, usually from trauma or vascular injury. So the description of a pus-filled pleural effusion best defines empyema.