Left-Sided Transudative Chylothorax With Concomitant Chylous Ascites in the Setting of Liver Cirrhosis

Abstract

Most chylothoraces are caused by trauma and malignancy, and pleural fluid analysis typically demonstrates an exudative effusion. Transudative chylothorax is a rare manifestation and has only been cited in case reports in the current literature. Here, we present the case of a 59-year-old male with a history of liver cirrhosis secondary to alcohol abuse, chronic kidney disease stage 3a, and hypertension who presented with a left-sided pleural effusion and abdominal ascites. A thoracentesis and abdominal paracentesis were performed, and fluid analyses demonstrated a transudative chylothorax with concomitant chylous ascites. In this review, we aim to highlight a rare case of transudative chylothorax and discuss the pathogenesis and management of this condition.