Parra, MarceloGattini, FrancescaDescalzi, FernandoSchiappacasse, Giancarlo2017-08-112017-08-112016Rev Chil Cir. 2016;68(5):379-383http://hdl.handle.net/11447/1566http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.rchic.2016.04.002Introduction: Necrotizing pneumonia complicated with empyema is a life-threatening condition that challenges multidisciplinary teams. The aim of this study is to perform an epidemiological characterization of these patients, and secondly, analyse their treatment and outcomes. Case presentation: A retrospective analysis of a series of consecutive patients experiencing necrotizing pneumonia with empyema who presented at Hospital Padre Hurtado. Seven (77.8%) were male. The median age was 53 (range 21-73) years. 44% presented with comorbidities (diabetes, high blood pressure, and neurological diseases). 44% presented drug abuse consumption and three (33.3%) were in a state of severe malnutrition. Management and outcome: The median time of hospitalization was 41 (range 16-129) days. Thoracotomies were performed in eight (83.2%) of the patients. In four patients, the isolated bacteria's were Enterococcus faecalis. Thoracic complications occurred in three (33.3%) patients. One patient required a lobectomy, one patient a fenestration and one (11.1%) patient died. Discussion: Necrotizing pneumonias complicated with empyema are rare, however, if there is an association with drug abuse, diabetes and malnutrition, we will continue to see such challenging cases with high morbidity and mortality.5spaNecrotizing pneumoniaLung AbscessEmpyemaNeumonías necrosantes graves con empiema asociadoSevere necrotizing pneumonias with secondary empyemasArtículo