Imaging of pleural infections.

Imaging plays a major role in both the detection and management of pleural space infections. This review will summarize the techniques that are useful in the detection and localization of pleural abnormalities due to infection, including the interventional procedures that can be used to aspirate and drain complicated parapneumonic effusions. While the pleural changes induced by most infectious agents are non-specific, some radiographic patterns may narrow the diagnostic possibilities. The "diagnostic" radiographic findings that are useful, in conjunction with the clinical presentation, in suggesting a specific causative agent will be reviewed.