Chylothorax complicating a thoracic aortic aneurysm

Eur Respir J. 1997 Mar;10(3):737-9.

Abstract

Chylothorax is an uncommon condition, usually associated with advanced malignant disease or trauma to the thoracic duct. Idiopathic chylothorax and other diverse causes have been anecdotally reported. We describe a rare case of chylothorax, developing as a result of damage to the thoracic duct by a thoracic aortic aneurysm. Tetracycline pleurodesis was successful in controlling the chylous effusion.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic / complications*
  • Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic / diagnostic imaging
  • Chylothorax / diagnostic imaging
  • Chylothorax / etiology*
  • Chylothorax / therapy
  • Drainage
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Pleurodesis
  • Radiography
  • Tetracycline / administration & dosage

Substances

  • Tetracycline