Very unusual case of post-traumatic chylothorax.
Chylothorax is a rare disease caused by both traumatic and nontraumatic events. Chylothorax can cause cardiopulmonary abnormalities and significant nutritional, metabolic, and immunologic consequences. We present an exceptional case of chylothorax due to penetrating chest trauma. The diagnosis was made by thoracentesis. Conservative management with nothing by mouth and total parenteral nutrition failed; therefore the patient needed surgical closure of the duct leak.
Scuola di Specializzazione in Chirurgia Toracica, Policlinico GB Rossi, Verona, Italy. bena.c@mailcity.com
Cristiano
C
Benato
Giovanni
G
Magnanelli
Alberto
A
Terzi
Paolo
P
Scanagatta
Cinzia
C
Bonadiman
Francesco
F
Calabrò
D002916:Chylothorax / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D013898:Thoracic Injuries / Q000150:complications*; D014950:Wounds, Penetrating / Q000150:complications*