T-Cell Lymphoma Presenting With Bilateral Chylothorax.

Journal: Journal Of The College Of Physicians And Surgeons--Pakistan : JCPSP
Published:
Abstract

Chylothorax is the accumulation of chyle in the pleural cavity due to obstruction or injury arising in the thoracic duct or its large branches. In more than 50% of patients diagnosed with chylothorax, the etiology consists of malignant diseases; and among these, lymphomas are the most common cause, accounting for 60% of cases. We report a case of a 37-year male with T-cell lymphoma who presented with bilateral pleural effusion; pleural fluid analysis confirmed chylothorax. A solid lymph node was detected in the left zone 4 on neck ultrasonography. Tru-cut biopsy was done and reported as T-cell lymphoma. The cytology was consistent with Class V (Malignant) T-cell lymphoma infiltration. Bilateral chylothorax, a complication of T-cell lymphoma, is a rare presentation of this disease. Our patient was diagnosed rapidly with both chylothorax and lymphoma. We started the treatment immediately and saved his life. Key Words: Chyle, Chylothorax, Lymphoma.