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Updated: May 1, 2026

International Expert Consensus and Recommendations for Neonatal Pneumothorax Ultrasound Diagnosis and Ultrasound-guided Thoracentesis Procedure
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International Expert Consensus and Recommendations for Neonatal Pneumothorax Ultrasound Diagnosis and Ultrasound-guided Thoracentesis Procedure

Published on: March 12, 2020

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Chylothorax in infants and children

James D Tutor1

  • 1Program in Pediatric Pulmonary Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center; Le Bonheur Children's Hospital; and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Memphis, Tennessee.

Pediatrics
|April 2, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Chylothorax, or chyle in the pleural space, is a rare pediatric pleural effusion causing respiratory issues, malnutrition, and immunodeficiency. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing this condition in infants and children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Medicine
  • Thoracic Surgery
  • Lymphatic System Physiology

Background:

  • Chylothorax is a rare but serious condition in children, involving chyle accumulation in the pleural space.
  • It can lead to significant respiratory morbidity, malnutrition, and immunodeficiency.
  • Timely diagnosis and treatment are essential for favorable outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the anatomy and physiology of the lymphatic system relevant to chylothorax.
  • To discuss the various causes of chylothorax in infants and children.
  • To outline current diagnostic and treatment modalities, and review potential complications.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of pediatric chylothorax.
  • Discussion of lymphatic system anatomy and physiology.
  • Synthesis of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

Main Results:

  • Chylothorax presents a diagnostic challenge due to its rarity.
  • Multiple etiologies exist, requiring tailored management strategies.
  • Effective treatment necessitates a multidisciplinary approach.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding lymphatic system function is key to comprehending chylothorax.
  • Early identification and intervention improve patient prognosis.
  • Further research may refine treatment protocols for pediatric chylothorax.

Keywords:
childrenchylothoraxinfants

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