Clinico-bacteriological profile and outcome of empyema

D Narayanappa1, N Rashmi, N A Prasad

  • 1Departments of Pediatrics, and * Pediatric Surgery, JSS Medical College and Hospital, JSS University, Mysore, Karnataka. India. Correspondence to: Dr D Narayanappa, No.534, Sinchana, 15th main, 5th Cross, Saraswathipuram, Mysore 570 009, Karnataka. India. sinchabhi@yahoo.com.

Indian Pediatrics
|March 19, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric empyema thoracis is often caused by Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA. Video-assisted thoracoscopy may reduce hospital stays but requires further study in children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Infectious Diseases
  • Thoracic Surgery
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Empyema thoracis presents a significant cause of illness in pediatric populations.
  • Understanding the clinical and microbiological aspects of childhood empyema is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the clinico-bacteriological profile and outcomes of empyema thoracis in children.
  • To evaluate the effectiveness of primary video-assisted thoracoscopy in managing pediatric empyema.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective observational study was conducted involving 50 children aged 0-15 years diagnosed with empyema.
  • Clinical data, bacteriological findings, and treatment outcomes were systematically collected and analyzed.

Main Results:

  • Staphylococcus aureus, predominantly Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), was the most frequent causative agent.
  • Pneumococcus and Pseudomonas were also identified as significant pathogens.
  • Primary video-assisted thoracoscopy suggested a potential for reduced hospital stay, though sample size was limited.

Conclusions:

  • Staphylococcus aureus (including MRSA) is a primary pathogen in pediatric empyema.
  • Video-assisted thoracoscopy shows promise as an effective management strategy, warranting further investigation with larger cohorts.

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