All issues > Volume 21(12); 1978

Original Article

J Korean Pediatr Soc. 1978;21(12):1147-1153. Published online December 31, 1978.

A Clinical Observation on Empema in Children.

J W Moon, K I Kwon, I K Paik, C M Kang

¹Department of Pediatrics, Presbyterian Hospital, Daegu, Korea.

Abstract

This is the report of clinical observation on seventy-four cases of pediatric empyema which were admitted to the Pediatric Department of Presbyterian Hospital, Daegu, Korea during the period of Jan. 1966 through May 1976. The following results were obtained. 1. Annual incidence showed no spacific prevalence. Highest seasonal incidence was in spring and winter(71.5%). 1-3 years old group was most commonly affected(35 cases, 47.3%) and 47 cases(63.5%) were under the 3 years of age. The male to female ratio was 2.5:1 2. The cardinal symptoms were fever(83.8%), cough(73%) 3. Pneumonia was most common preceding disease(59 cases, 79.7%) and Pneumothorax was complicated in 24 cases(32.4%). 4. The location of empyema was right side in 43 cases(58.1%), and 29 cases(39.1%) in left side. 2 cases(2.7%) were in both sides. 5. Causative organisms were cultured in 26 cases(44.6%). The commonest organism was staphyloccus aureus(17 cases, 65.4%). Diplococcus pneumoniae and streptococci were found in 7 cases(26. 9%) and 2 cases(7.7%) respectively. 6. Staphylococci were sensitive to erythromycin(64.3%), Kanamycin(50%), and Tetracyclinine(50%). The sensitivity test to Cloxacillin was not performed. 7. Antibiotics only were given to 25 cases(33.8%) and in 49 cases(66.2%), combined therapy with antibiotics and closed thoracotomy were performed. 8. The mortality rate was 5.4%, revealing different rate in antibiotic and combined therapy group. noted 8.0% and 4.1% respectively. 9. 27 cases(36.5%) needed 10~20 hospital days.

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