Spontaneous bacterial empyema in liver cirrhosis: An underdiagnosed pleural complication
Spontaneous bacterial empyema, defined as spontaneous infection of the pleural fluid, represents a distinct complication of hepatic hydrothorax with a different pathogenesis, clinical course and treatment strategy from those of empyema secondary to pneumonia. Nearly 40% of episodes of spo...
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
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Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications
2008-01-01
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| Series: | The Saudi Journal of Gastroenterology |
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| Online Access: | http://www.saudijgastro.com/article.asp?issn=1319-3767;year=2008;volume=14;issue=1;spage=43;epage=45;aulast=Allam |
| Summary: | Spontaneous bacterial empyema, defined as spontaneous infection of the pleural fluid, represents a distinct complication of hepatic hydrothorax with a different pathogenesis, clinical course and treatment strategy from those of empyema secondary to pneumonia. Nearly 40% of episodes of spontaneous empyema are not associated with spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) or even ascites. The condition portends a poor prognosis, and is frequently under-diagnosed. This article reviews the pathogenesis, diagnosis and management of spontaneous bacterial empyema. |
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| ISSN: | 1319-3767 |