Is chylothorax genetic?

Our patients, in addition to the previously reported familial cases, suggest that in some instances a spectrum of CPL with chylothorax has a genetic basis. There is clinical variability among the reported familial cases.

What causes congenital Chylothorax?

Causes of chylothorax Congenital lymphatic malformations such as lymphangiomatosis. Tumors. Systemic diseases or infections such as tuberculosis. Congenital syndromes such as Gorham-Stout, Noonan and Turner syndromes.

How common is congenital Chylothorax?

Chylothorax, which is defined as accumulation of lymph in the pleural cavity, is the most common form of pleural effusion encountered in the perinatal period. It is a rare occurrence, estimated to affect 1 in 10,000 births, with a mortality rate ranging between 20% and 60%.

How is Chylothorax treated?

Initial conservative treatment (e.g., parenteral nutrition or a special diet) succeeds in 20% to 80% of cases. When such treatment fails, the standard approach up to the present has been to treat surgically, e.g., with ligation of the thoracic duct, pleurodesis, or a pleuroperitoneal shunt.

Is Chylothorax fatal?

Chylothorax is a serious and potentially fatal disease. However, the prognosis is generally good if four conditions are met: 1. Breathing is stabilized.

What are the causes of non-traumatic chylothorax?

Non-traumatic chylothorax can be due to the following: Congenital chylothorax can be seen as an isolated condition or in association with other lymphatic abnormalities like lymphangiectasis, lymphangiomatosis, tuberous sclerosis, congenital heart disease, or chromosomal abnormalities such as trisomy 21 or Turner syndrome.

What is the pathophysiology of chylothorax?

Chylothorax is formed when the chyle leaks into the pleural cavity due to damage to the thoracic duct. As the normal chyle production is around 2.4 liters per day, a considerable amount of chyle can accumulate in the pleural cavity in a very short period.

What are the three types of chylothorax?

Etiology The etiology of chylothorax can be classified into three broad categories, spontaneous (non-traumatic), traumatic, and idiopathic.   Historically, non-traumatic chylothorax was the more common cause for chylothorax, accounting for two-thirds of all cases.

What does chylothorax in the posterior mediastinum mean?

Due to the high amount of fat content, it is seen as a low-attenuation tubular area in the posterior mediastinum. CT scan also may show the cause of chylothorax like mass lesions or obstructive lesion in the posterior mediastinum, thoracic malignancy, or evidence of trauma. MRI