An empyema () is a collection or gathering of
pus within a naturally existing anatomical cavity. For example,
pleural empyema is empyema of the
pleural cavity. It must be differentiated from an
abscess
An abscess is a collection of pus that has built up within the tissue of the body. Signs and symptoms of abscesses include redness, pain, warmth, and swelling. The swelling may feel fluid-filled when pressed. The area of redness often extends ...
, which is a collection of pus in a newly formed cavity. The term is from
Greek ἐμπύημα, "abscess".
Classification
Empyema occurs in:
* the
pleural cavity (
pleural empyema also known as pyothorax)
* the
thoracic cavity
* the
uterus
The uterus (from Latin ''uterus'', plural ''uteri'') or womb () is the organ in the reproductive system of most female mammals, including humans that accommodates the embryonic and fetal development of one or more embryos until birth. The ...
(
pyometra)
* the
appendix
Appendix, or its plural form appendices, may refer to:
__NOTOC__ In documents
* Addendum, an addition made to a document by its author after its initial printing or publication
* Bibliography, a systematic list of books and other works
* Index (pu ...
(
appendicitis
Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix. Symptoms commonly include right lower abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and decreased appetite. However, approximately 40% of people do not have these typical symptoms. Severe complications of a r ...
)
* the
meninges
In anatomy, the meninges (, ''singular:'' meninx ( or ), ) are the three membranes that envelop the brain and spinal cord. In mammals, the meninges are the dura mater, the arachnoid mater, and the pia mater. Cerebrospinal fluid is located in ...
(
subdural empyema)
* the
joints (
septic arthritis)
* the
gallbladder
External links
*
{{Authority control
Immune system
Medical terminology