title: Thoracic empyema.
abstract: This article summarizes the pathogenesis, clinical presentation, radiological manifestations, and treatment options of patients with parapneumonic effusions or empyema. Emphasis is placed on an expeditious workup and appropriate selection of the multiple therapeutic options.
authors.affiliation: Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Northwestern University Medical School, Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
authors.forename: Alberto
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: de Hoyos
authors.forename: Sudhir
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Sundaresan
mesh_terms: D016724:Empyema, Pleural / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D006801:Humans