Irfan Ullah , Shahzad Rauf , Jahanzeb Malik , Kiran Shafiq Khan , Abdul Wali Khan
Kabir Medical College. Khyber Medical University. Rawalpindi Institute of Cardiology. Dow University of Health Sciences. College of Physician and Surgeons Pakistan. Hayatabad Medical Complex Peshawar.
Pakistan
Cureus
Cureus 2021; 13:
DOI: 10.7759/cureus.12942
Abstract
Chylothorax or collection of lymphatic fluid in the pleural space is an exceedingly rare cause of pleural effusion and respiratory distress in neonates. In adults, prompt diagnosis and effective treatment regimen can aid in the resolution of chylothorax; however, in neonates treating the condition can be an onerous challenge for the pediatricians due to the rarity and perplexing clinical presentation. We elucidate a case of spontaneous chylothorax in a 15-day-old neonate who presented to us with respiratory distress, chest indrawing, and cyanosis for nine days. The prenatal and birth history of the patient were insignificant. The detailed laboratory and radiological assessment of the patient divulged a diagnosis of spontaneous chylothorax for which the patient was intubated. Unfortunately, the patient deteriorated and eventually expired on the 23rd postnatal day due to the complications of respiratory acidosis and hypoxemia.
Category
Pulmonary Lymphatic Disease
Age Focus: Pediatric Pulmonary Vascular Disease
Fresh or Filed Publication: Filed (PHiled). Greater than 1-2 years since publication
Article Access
Free PDF File or Full Text Article Available Through PubMed or DOI: Yes