Isolated empyema necessitans in a renal transplant recipient: A case report

Abstract

Empyema necessitans is a rare sequel of untreated pleural space infection and is most commonly secondary to tuberculosis. Isolated tuberculous empyema necessitans in a renal transplant recipient is extremely rare. It is an important differential diagnosis of a chest mass in renal transplant recipient. Early identification and treatment prevents progression and morbidity. We hereby report a 62-year-old male renal transplant recipient who presented with classical features of tubercular empyema necessitans and was managed with antitubercular therapy and tube thoracostomy drainage.

Keywords

• Empyema necessitans
• Tuberculosis
• Renal transplant
• Split pleura sign