What does the term empyema refer to?

The term empyema specifically refers to the presence of pus in a body cavity, most commonly the pleural space in the lungs. This condition typically arises as a complication of pneumonia, where infection leads to the accumulation of pus due to the body's inflammatory response. The pus consists of dead cells, bacteria, and other debris generated from the immune response to fight the infection. Recognizing empyema is crucial for diagnosis and treatment, as it may require drainage and antibiotic treatment to resolve the infection and improve the patient's condition. Other terms in the choices address different medical conditions: abnormal tissue growth typically relates to tumors, infection of the intestines refers to gastroenteritis or similar conditions, and double vision is associated with issues in eye muscle control or neurological disorders. Each of these options represents distinct medical terms that do not align with the definition of empyema.