Etymed
pyothorax
Definition
The presence of pus in the pleural cavity, typically resulting from a bacterial infection
Clinical context
A 65-year-old man presents to the emergency department with a two-day history of fever, chills, and sharp chest pain that worsens with inspiration. He has a history of diabetes mellitus and recently had a bout of pneumonia. On examination, his vital signs show fever and tachypnea, and his right lung sounds are diminished. Chest X-ray reveals a pleural effusion with evidence of infection. The patient is diagnosed with pyothorax secondary to his recent pneumonia.
Mnemonic
PYO stands for Pus, Yawning, and Oozing - all signs of infected pleural fluid accumulation