Isolated pericardial empyema secondary to Staphylococcus aureus.
Pericardial empyema, or purulent pericarditis, is a condition uncommonly encountered in routine medical practice but one which is rapidly fatal if left untreated. Early diagnosis is paramount if the patient is to survive. This case report highlights the covert nature of presentation which may occur, hindering early diagnosis, and reviews the current literature.
James
P R.
PR
Cardiac Department, Royal Sussex County Hospital, Eastern Road, BN2 5BE, Brighton, UK