Chylothorax is an accumulation of fluid, rich in triglycerides and characterized by the presence of chylomicrons, in the pleural space. Its occurrence is so uncommon that most physicians have not cared for patients with a chylothorax. Management ranges from drainage and simple dietary modifications to thoracic duct ligation, as well as treating the primary process. The diverse etiologies and different approaches to management found in the literature can be likened to the numerous anatomic variations of the cisterna chyli and the thoracic duct.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Valentine et al. (1992) studied this question.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: