How Do You Spell LOCULATED EMPYEMA?

1. Loculated empyema is a medical condition characterized by the formation of pockets or compartments of pus within the pleural space of the chest. The pleural space is the area between the lungs and the chest wall, which normally contains a thin layer of fluid that helps lubricate the lungs during breathing. However, in cases of infection or inflammation, this fluid can become infected and pus-filled, resulting in an empyema.

   The term "loculated" refers to the formation of these pus-filled pockets within the pleural space. Unlike a free-flowing empyema where the pus can spread and occupy the entire pleural space, a loculated empyema is confined to specific areas or compartments, which are separated by tissue or adhesions. This compartmentalization can make the management and treatment of the infection more challenging.

   Symptoms of loculated empyema may include chest pain, shortness of breath, fever, chills, and cough with production of thick, purulent sputum. Diagnosis is typically made using imaging techniques such as chest X-rays or computed tomography (CT) scans, which can show the presence of localized fluid collections within the pleural space.

   Treatment of loculated empyema typically involves drainage of the pus from the affected compartments. This can be achieved through procedures such as thoracentesis, chest tube insertion, or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition. Antibiotics may also be prescribed to treat the underlying infection contributing to the empyema. It is important to promptly diagnose and treat loculated empyema to prevent complications such as lung damage, abscess formation, or spreading of the infection to other parts of the body.

2. A condition in which numerous pleural adhesions have formed pockets in which pus collects.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for LOCULATED EMPYEMA

The etymology of the term "loculated empyema" is as follows:

1. Loculated: The word "loculated" comes from the Latin word "loculus", which means a small space, cell, or chamber. The suffix "-ated" is derived from the Latin suffix "-atus", indicating possession, presence, or condition.

2. Empyema: The word "empyema" also has Latin origins. It is derived from the combination of the Greek word "empyēma", meaning a collection of pus, and the Latin suffix "-ema", denoting a pathological condition.

Therefore, "loculated empyema" refers to a condition in which a collection of pus (empyema) is confined to small spaces or chambers (loculated).