Disease Comparison
Compare similarities and differences between two diseases.
Peritonitis
Unknown
3
Symptoms
2
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
VS
Empyema
Unknown
3
Symptoms
2
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
Overview
Peritonitis
Peritonitis is inflammation or infection of the peritoneum, the thin tissue lining the inside of the abdomen and covering many abdominal organs. It can cause severe abdominal pain, tenderness, swelling, fever, nausea and vomiting. Peritonitis can develop when bacteria or other substances enter the abdominal cavity. It is potentially serious and may require urgent medical treatment.
Empyema
Empyema is a collection of infected pus in the pleural space, the thin area between the lungs and the inner chest wall. It usually develops as a complication of pneumonia or another infection in the chest. Empyema can cause fever, chest pain, cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Because infected fluid can interfere with normal lung expansion, prompt medical treatment is important.
Symptoms
Shared
FeverOnly in Left Disease
Blood In Vomit Lower Abdominal PainOnly in Right Disease
Coughing Blood Shortness Of BreathCauses
Shared
Infection InflammationOnly in Left Disease
None
Only in Right Disease
None
Diagnosis
Peritonitis
Diagnosis begins with symptoms, medical history and physical examination. The abdomen may be very tender or painful during examination. Blood tests can help identify inflammation or infection. Imaging such as abdominal CT scanning or ultrasound may help locate the source. In some cases, fluid from the abdominal cavity is collected and examined to identify infection and guide treatment.
Empyema
Diagnosis involves the medical history, physical examination, and imaging of the chest. A chest X-ray may show pleural fluid, while ultrasound or CT scanning can provide more detailed information about the amount and location of fluid. A sample of pleural fluid may be removed with a needle and examined for bacteria, cells, and chemical characteristics. Culture testing can help identify the organism and guide treatment.
Prevention
Peritonitis
Some causes of peritonitis can be reduced by treating abdominal infections and conditions such as appendicitis promptly. People using peritoneal dialysis should carefully follow sterile technique and their treatment team instructions. Seek urgent medical care for severe or worsening abdominal pain, fever, persistent vomiting or abdominal swelling, particularly when an abdominal infection or perforation is suspected.
Empyema
Empyema cannot always be prevented, but treating pneumonia and other respiratory infections promptly may reduce the risk of complications. Following prescribed treatment and seeking medical attention when respiratory symptoms become severe or fail to improve are important. Preventive measures such as appropriate vaccination, avoiding smoking, and managing chronic lung conditions can also help reduce the risk of serious respiratory infections.
Risk Factors
Peritonitis
Risk is increased by conditions that can cause abdominal perforation or infection, including appendicitis, diverticulitis, bowel disease, abdominal trauma and ulcers. People undergoing peritoneal dialysis have an increased risk of infection involving the peritoneum. Previous abdominal surgery and conditions that weaken immune defenses may also increase susceptibility to serious abdominal infections.
Empyema
Risk increases with pneumonia, lung infections, weakened immunity, chronic lung disease, and conditions that make it difficult to clear respiratory infections. Recent chest surgery, chest injury, aspiration, or other infections within the chest can also increase risk. Older adults and people with significant underlying illnesses may be more vulnerable to complications from pleural infections.
Treatment
Peritonitis
Treatment comparison will be available soon.
Empyema
Treatment comparison will be available soon.