Work

Chylous Ascites due to Mantle Cell Lymphoma

Year: 2018

Type: article

Abstract: Chylous ascites is rare and results in accumulation of lymph in the abdominal cavity, due to several mechanisms. The ascitic liquid is milky because of the high concentration of triglycerides (>200 mg/dl). The higher incidence compared to the past is explained by increased survival of patients with cancer and more aggressive surgery. We describe the case of an 87-year-old man admitted to the geriatric ward due to general oedema, chylous ascites and loss of weight, explained by mantle cell lymphoma. LEARNING POINTS: Chylous ascites is more frequent in trauma, but in some cases may be related to obstruction of the thoracic duct by retroperitoneal fibrosis, pancreatitis or neoplasms.It is a progressive, difficult to manage condition, with a spectrum of treatment ranging from a special diet to surgery.Its prognosis depends fundamentally on the predisposing condition.

Source: European Journal of Case Reports in Internal Medicine

DOI: 10.12890/2018_000871

Authors: Ricardo Jorge Gonçalves Fernandes, Márcia Leite, Joana Cochicho, Rafaela Veríssimo, Agripino Oliveira

Institution: Centro Hospitalar de Vila Nova de Gaia

Language: English

Topic: Lymphatic Disorders and Treatments

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $323