Chylothorax

Chylothorax is a defect of ductus thoracicus → chylous leaks into the pleural cavity.

Causes

 * Malignant process (up to 75 %),
 * lymphangioleiomyomatosis,
 * trauma,
 * idiopathic.

Diagnosis

 * Proof of TAG in puncture (> 1,24 mmol/l), chylomicrons.

Clinical image

 * Malnutrition (loss of fat),
 * immunodeficiency (failure of immunocompetent cell transport).

Therapy

 * Surgical revision with suture of ductus thoracicus; adjustment of malnutrition.

Related articles

 * Pleural effusion
 * Hemothorax
 * Empyema
 * Fibrothorax