An 80-year-old female develops pneumonia in the hospital. She becomes cyanotic, tachycardic, and develops a fever and cough. Chest x-ray reveals pus in the pleural space. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
A) Empyema
B) Emphysema
C) Pleurisy
D) Chyle

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence of pus in the pleural space indicates empyema, which is a complication of pneumonia. Emphysema is a chronic lung disease with destruction of alveolar walls, Pleurisy is inflammation of the pleural membrane, and Chyle is a milky fluid containing lymph and chylomicrons that can accumulate in the pleural space in conditions such as lymph obstruction. None of these conditions are consistent with the given clinical presentation.

An 80-Year-Old Female Develops Pneumonia in the Hospital