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Massive pancreatico-pleural effusion--an often unrecognised entity
D Gupta1, K L Chakraborty, S Gomber
1Department of Paediatrics, University College of Medical Sciences, G.T.B. Hospital.
Indian Journal of Pediatrics
|October 24, 2001
Insights
A rare case of massive hemorrhagic pleural effusion in a five-year-old girl due to pancreatitis is presented. Diagnosis involved high amylase pleural fluid and treatment with chest tube drainage and antibiotics.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Gastroenterology
- Thoracic Medicine
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Pancreatitis can lead to extrapancreatic complications.
- Pleural effusion is a known, though uncommon, complication of pancreatitis.
Observation:
- A five-year-old female presented with massive hemorrhagic pleural effusion.
- The effusion was exudative with extremely high amylase levels (>4,000 IU/L).
Findings:
- The pleural effusion was directly attributed to pancreatitis.
- Diagnosis was confirmed by characteristic pleural fluid analysis.
Implications:
- This case highlights pancreatitis as a potential cause of massive hemorrhagic pleural effusion in children.
- Prompt diagnosis and management, including drainage and antibiotics, are crucial for favorable outcomes.
Abstract:
Massive haemorrhagic pleural effusion secondary to pancreatitis in a five year old girl is described. The diagnosis was established on the basis of an exudative pleural effusion with an amylase level above 4,000 IU/l. Management of effusion was by intercostal tube drainage and antibiotics.