Efficacy and safety of intrapleural streptokinase in tubercular empyema thoracis – old wine in new wineskin

Abstract

Tubercular empyema thoracis continues to be one of the leading causes of morbidity in low-income countries. Despite antitubercular therapy (ATT) and thoracostomy, empyema drainage is hampered by multiple septations, loculations, debris, and blood clots leading to complications. In a comparative experimental study to estimate the efficacy and safety of intrapleural streptokinase (IPSTK) in tubercular empyema, 30 cases of chronic multiloculated tubercular empyema were compared by radiological improvement by chest radiography, duration and volume of fluid drained, and degree of dyspnoea according to the modified Borg scale, depending on whether streptokinase was used or not. The former scored on all counts; we therefore conclude that intrapleural streptokinase is a safe, efficacious intervention in tubercular empyema. It decreases morbidity and reduces the need for surgery.