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Thoracic empyema due to Streptococcus milleri: four cases
Abstract:
Four cases of Streptococcus milleri empyema occurring over a six month period are reported. Empyema was post-pneumonic in three patients and followed blunt abdominal and chest trauma in one patient. There was an absence of serious underlying disease in these patients and management consisted of tube drainage, lavage of the pleural space and prolonged intrapleural and systemically administered antibiotic therapy. Complete recovery was achieved in three patients and a satisfactory result in the other without surgical intervention. The clinical and microbiological features of this group of patients are reviewed.
Insights
This study reports four cases of Streptococcus milleri empyema, a chest infection. Successful treatment was achieved with antibiotics and drainage, avoiding surgery in all patients.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Microbiology
Background:
- Empyema, a serious chest infection, can arise from pneumonia or trauma.
- Streptococcus milleri is a less common but significant cause of empyema.
- Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial for favorable outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on four cases of Streptococcus milleri empyema.
- To review the clinical and microbiological features of these cases.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of non-surgical management.
Main Methods:
- Case series reporting four patients with Streptococcus milleri empyema.
- Treatment involved tube drainage, pleural lavage, and antibiotic therapy (intrapleural and systemic).
- No surgical intervention was required for any patient.
Main Results:
- Three cases of empyema were post-pneumonic, one followed trauma.
- All patients recovered completely or had satisfactory outcomes.
- Non-surgical management proved effective in all reported cases.
Conclusions:
- Streptococcus milleri empyema can be successfully treated without surgery.
- Aggressive antibiotic and drainage strategies are effective.
- This approach offers a viable alternative for managing empyema.