Chylous Ascites

Excerpt

Chylous ascites (CA) is defined as a milky appearing, triglyceride-rich peritoneal fluid in the abdominal cavity. It is an uncommon clinical condition that was first reported in 1912. It is characterized by the accumulation of true chyle from thoracic or intestinal lymph. Various etiologies have been described, and it usually occurs due to trauma, rupture of the lymphatics secondary to obstruction, or an increase in the peritoneal lymphatic pressure. CA is rich in nutrients and immunoglobulins that become biologically unavailable after accumulating in the peritoneal cavity. This can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, malnutrition, and suppression of the immune system. It can be associated with a high mortality rate that can reach up to 40% to 70%, depending on the underlying etiology. Therefore, prompt diagnosis and treatment are warranted.