Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10700, Thailand. Received for publication: June 2, 2010. Reprint request: Rujipas Sirijatuphat, M.D., Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10700...

Background—Thoracentesis and antibiotics remain the cornerstones of treatment in stage I empyema. The management of disease progression or late presentation is controversial. Open thoracotomy and decortication is perceived to be synonymous with protracted recovery and prolonged hospitalisation. Advocates of thoracoscopic adhesiolysis cite earlier chest drain removal and hospital discharge. This...

Background: Tuberculous (TB) empyema is a chronic infection of pleural space which carries a signifi cant morbidity and mortality. Aims: The aim of this study was to observe clinical, radiological, bacteriological features, and the outcomes obtained by the medical management of TB empyema. Methodology: A retrospective case analysis of all the adult patients admitted with TB empyema was performe...