Gas Formation in the Pleural Space of a Child with an Anaerobic Streptococcal Pneumonia and Empyema

Abstract

Anaerobic pleuropulmonary infections are common in adults1 but are unusual in children.2 Since the advent of antimicrobial chemotherapy, intrathoracic gas formation associated with these infections in children has not, to our knowledge, been reported.3 The purpose of this report is to describe a severe anaerobic streptococcal pneumonia and empyema with gas formation in a 9-year-old child and to review the diagnostic considerations stimulated by the presence of intrathoracic air-fluid levels. CASE REPORT A 9-year old white girl was transferred to the Primary Children's Medical Center, University of Utah for treatment of an apparent lung abscess. Thirteen days prior to transfer this previously healthy girl had been admitted to another hospital with a one-day history of lower midabdominal pain.