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Chylothorax secondary to systemic lupus erythematosus
Avishek Layek1, Muniza Bai1, Uma Kumar2
1Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine, AIIMS New Delhi, New Delhi, Delhi, India.
BMJ Case Reports
|January 29, 2026
Summary
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) rarely causes chylothorax. This case report details successful treatment of SLE-related chylothorax with immunosuppressive therapy and rituximab, offering insights into managing this rare condition.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Pulmonology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Serous membrane involvement is common in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
- Chylothorax, or chyle accumulation in the pleural space, is an exceedingly rare manifestation of SLE.
- The precise pathogenesis of SLE-associated chylothorax remains unclear, with lymphatic vessel inflammation hypothesized.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a rare case of chylothorax in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
- To describe the management and 12-month follow-up of this rare condition.
- To contribute to understanding the treatment of SLE-related chylothorax.
Main Methods:
- Case report presentation.
- Review of patient management including immunosuppressive therapy and rituximab.
- 12-month follow-up assessment.
Main Results:
- Initial immunosuppressive therapy led to resolution of chylothorax.
- Recurrence of serositis occurred upon steroid tapering.
- Subsequent treatment with rituximab demonstrated efficacy in managing recurrent disease.
Conclusions:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) can rarely present with chylothorax.
- Immunosuppressive therapy is a potential initial treatment.
- Rituximab may be effective for managing recurrent SLE-related chylothorax and serositis.
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