Pleural Infections

Covers imaging and microbiology, RAPID score risk stratification, tube management, intrapleural tPA/DNase protocols, and team-based management of complex infection.

Empyema staging • Drainage algorithms • IET protocolsReading time · 24mWord count · 3,841

Track your progress—Pleural Infections will stay highlighted in the catalog.

Exam mapping & scope

Exam Mapping & Scope This chapter covers evaluation and management of pleural space infections across the spectrum from complicated parapneumonic effusions to empyema, emphasizing risk stratification (RAPID), chest tube selection, intrapleural enzyme therapy, saline irrigation, surgical escalation, and special populations. Guidance reflects contemporary society statements and pragmatic pathways tested in trials summarized in the provided materials.

Focus this round

RAPID score use
Drain troubleshooting
Escalation criteria

Orientation

Interactive chapter

Expand sections to review focused notes. Search filters headings and body copy in real time.

Pleural Infections

Exam mapping & scope

Focus this round

Orientation

Learning Objectives

High‑Yield One‑Pager

Indications & Contraindications

Pre‑procedure Evaluation

Equipment & Setup

Step‑by‑Step Technique / Procedural Checklist

Troubleshooting & Intra‑procedure Management

Post‑procedure Care & Follow‑up

Complications (Prevention, Recognition, Management)

Special Populations

Evidence & Outcomes

Bulleted algorithm (parallel):

Algorithm 2 — Escalation After Tube Placement

Bulleted algorithm (parallel):

Table 1. Spectrum of Pleural Infection—Defining Features

Table 2. Empiric Antibiotic Approach

Table 3. Intrapleural Enzyme Therapy (IET) at a Glance

Table 4. RAPID Score (Predicts 90‑day Mortality)

Imaging & Figure Callouts (Placeholders)

Cases & Applied Learning

Question Bank (MCQs)

Controversies, Variability, and Evolving Evidence

Take‑Home Checklist

Abbreviations & Glossary

References (AMA)