Congenital chylothorax - Successful management with chemical pleurodesis

Abstract

Congenital Chylothorax is a rare entity which is characterized by abnormal accumulation of chyle in pleural cavity. Chylothorax presenting as non-immune hydrops is even rarer. We report a case of congenital bilateral chylothorax presenting as non immune hydrops and managed successfully with chemical pleurodesis. A term male baby presented at birth with bilateral pleural effusions and subcutaneous edema. It was initially managed with ventilation and intercostals drainage (ICD). After the initiation of feeds, re-accumulation of pleural fluid led to the diagnosis of congenital chylothorax. Management with ICD and octreotide was unsuccessful but responded to chemical pleurodesis with 4% povidine iodine done on 3 separate occasions.