Intrapleural fibrinolytic therapy in a two-year-old: A case report

Parapneumonic effusion, a common complication of bacterial pneumonia in children, often requires intervention when conventional treatment fails. This case highlights the treatment of a complicated parapneumonic effusion in a 2-year-old female patient. After unsuccessful drainage of effusion, the patient was subjected to the use of intrapleural fibrinolytic therapy (IPFT) with Streptokinase. A single cycle of IPFT showed the removal of a substantial amount of fluid from the pleural cavity without any adverse reactions. A complete radiological resolution was noted. This case signifies the importance of IPFT as a cost-effective alternative for surgery and the first line of management after antibiotics and percutaneous drainage, particularly in resource-limited settings.