Pulmonology Coding Alert

Pyothorax (empyema) is an accumulation of pus in the pleural cavity that is present between the lungs and the wall of the chest. Pyothorax is a condition that usually occur secondary to an infection such as a lung infection or a lung abscess. One type of lung infection that can cause the complication of pyothorax is pneumonia.

Stages of Pyothorax

Based on the progress of the condition in the pleural cavity, there are three stages of pyothorax:

• Exudative -- During this stage, there is the accumulation of the pus within the pleural cavity but there is no formation of pockets filled with pus. The fluid filled is thinner and is more of serous nature.
• Fibrinopurulent -- During this stage, the accumulated pus becomes thicker and opaque. There is also the formation of pockets that get filled with the pus. A culture test of the pus fluid is usually positive for infectious microorganisms.
• Organizing/ Late Stage -- In this stage, there is a scarring of tissue that can cause entrapment of the lung.