Non-antibiotic management of parapneumonic effusion and thoracic empyema in adults

This section covers information on the non-antibiotic management of parapneumonic effusion and thoracic empyema in adults, including:

• drainage
• intrapleural enzyme therapy
• surgery.

For non-antibiotic management of parapneumonic effusion and thoracic empyema in children, seek specialist advice. Information on diagnosis and management is available from The Royal Children’s Hospital (Melbourne) website.