Pus in the lungs is often associated with a condition called empyema, although empyema technically refers to pus specifically within the pleural cavity (the space between the lungs and the chest wall).
Empyema Explained
Empyema is defined as a collection of pus in the pleural cavity. This condition is often linked to:
- Pneumonia
- Thoracic surgery
- Thoracic trauma
The diagnosis of empyema requires evidence of pus or gram-positive bacteria or a positive culture from the pleural fluid.
