Abstract
Empyema necessitans is a rare complication of empyema in which pus
accumulates within the pleural space and spreads through the chest wall,
leading to the formation of a subcutaneous abscess. This condition
presents significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges due to its
rarity and potential for serious complications. Here we present the case
of an eight-year-old boy with a history of parapneumonic effusion that
was incompletely treated due to a lack of fibrinolytic agent injection.
He presented with fever, chills, a productive cough, and left-sided
chest pain with yellowish purulent secretions from the left chest wall.
The patient was diagnosed with empyema necessitans caused byStaphylococcus aureus , which has occurred due to inadequate
treatment and the lack of administration of a fibrinolytic agent
injection for the patient. He was treated with broad-spectrum
antibiotics, video-assisted
thoracic surgery (VATS), and a chest tube for complete drainage. The
patient showed a smooth and uneventful recovery, highlighting the
importance of early diagnosis and prompt treatment of empyema
necessitans to avoid further complications. This case report aims to
increase awareness among clinicians about the importance of early
recognition and appropriate management of empyema necessitans to improve
patient outcomes.
Key words: empyema necessitans, pediatric, Staphylococcus