CHYLOTHORAX; BRIEF REVIEW OF LITERATURE; REPORT OF THREE NON-TRAUMATIC CASES

Abstract

Chylothorax is a relatively rare condition, the three cases reported bringing the total reviewed in the literature to 105. It results from any condition that interferes with the normal flow of chyle through the thoracic duct. In adults, malignancy outside the duct is the most common cause. This was the etiology in 2 of the cases here reported and probably the cause in the 3d. Diagnosis is largely dependent on identification of chylous pleural fluid. Prognosis is invariably poor regardless of etiology. Mortality is 50% in the traumatic cases. All reported cases due to malignancy were fatal. Treatment is symptomatic; most important is aspiration of fluid as necessary to relieve respiratory distress and intravenous re-infusion of the fluid to prevent rapid emaciation. In a few selected cases surgery may be curative.