Beyond Pneumonia: A Rare Case of Pericardial Empyema Caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae

1 adult male (n=1), 58 years old, immunocompetent, with a medical history of hypertension, non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, and hypothyroidism, presenting with purulent pericardial effusion, myopericarditis, and pneumonia linked to septic arthritis of the knee caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Pericardiocentesis with pericardial drain placement, initial broad-spectrum antibiotics (IV Cefepime, Metronidazole, Vancomycin) transitioned to targeted IV Ceftriaxone, surgical washout and debridement of the knee with wound vac therapy, and pigtail drains for pleural effusions.