Chylothorax and Pseudochylothorax

Clin Chest Med. 2021 Dec;42(4):667-675. doi: 10.1016/j.ccm.2021.08.003.

Abstract

Classically, both chylothorax and pseudochylothorax present as a pleural effusion with a characteristic milky white appearance to the pleural fluid. Although both are rare causes of pleural effusion, they have distinct etiologies and clinical implications, and as a result require different management strategies. Pleural fluid analysis of cholesterol and triglyceride levels is key to differentiating the 2 entities from one another and then guide the clinician to determine the best next steps in evaluation and management.

Keywords: Chylothorax; Lymphangioleiomyomatosis; Pseudochylothorax; Yellow nail syndrome.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cholesterol
  • Chylothorax* / diagnosis
  • Chylothorax* / etiology
  • Chylothorax* / therapy
  • Humans
  • Pleural Effusion* / diagnosis
  • Pleural Effusion* / etiology
  • Pleural Effusion* / therapy

Substances

  • Cholesterol