title: Infection of the pleural space.
abstract: Parapneumonic effusions are common accompaniments of pneumonia that require proper management to prevent progression to empyema. Management decisions require thoughtful individualization of care because of the multiple factors that affect outcome; no one algorithmic approach exists for all patients. Basic principles of care, however, apply to all patients and center on the early detection of infected pleural fluid and the rapid completion of effective pleural drainage and lung re-expansion, when indicated to decrease morbidity and mortality.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, USA.
authors.forename: J E
authors.initials: JE
authors.lastname: Heffner
mesh_terms: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D001424:Bacterial Infections / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000382:microbiology / Q000628:therapy*; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D004322:Drainage / Q000379:methods*; D016724:Empyema, Pleural / Q000517:prevention & control*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010996:Pleural Effusion / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000382:microbiology / Q000628:therapy*; D011014:Pneumonia / Q000150:complications; D011379:Prognosis; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents