Rare Combination of Chyloperitoneum Secondary to Primary Small-Bowel Volvulus

Abstract

Chylous ascites is the exudation from lymphatic content to the peritoneum and is a rare situation that mostly occurs following medical causes like neoplasms or cirrhosis. However, trauma to the lymphatic system due to compression by masses or altered anatomy can be a trigger too. We describe a rare combination of a primary small bowel volvulus in a young healthy adult causing chylous ascites.Obstruction caused by a primary small bowell volvulus can re-arrange the lymphatics anatomy increasing their flow pressure which can lead to rupture and leak. This is an emergent scenario that needs to be addressed quickly because of bowel ischaemia. CT scan is the gold standard to expedite diagnosis and go to surgical treatment.Although it can be an impactful finding, treatment of the cause behind chylous ascites results in complete resolution without any bowel resection.