Congenital chylothorax in infants: An updated scoping review

Chylothorax is a medical condition characterised by the abnormal accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the pleural cavity. In its congenital form, chylothorax develops as a result of an idiopathic abnormality in the thoracic duct. Congenital chylothorax (CCT) is the leading cause of pleural effusion in infants, a condition where excess fluid builds up in the space between the lungs and the chest wall. This scoping review includes a wide range of published studies from 1980 to January 2024, obtained from multiple reputable databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Springer and BioMed Central. Effective management strategies are crucial for improving outcomes in infants with CCT. Timely drainage of pleural fluid is essential to alleviate respiratory distress and prevent further complications. Appropriate nutritional care is also critical, as it helps in supporting the neonate's overall health and recovery. Early intervention and continuous monitoring can significantly improve the likelihood of a positive outcome.

What the study adds. Congenital chylothorax (CCT) is a serious but rare condition in newborns. CCT is characterised by the accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the pleural space with subsequent respiratory distress. This scoping review of recent literature describes current concepts in the aetiology, diagnosis and treatment of CCT in newborns, emphasising the importance of timely diagnosis and a multidisciplinary strategy. The review integrates available evidence on CCT, emerging diagnostic strategies such as lymphangiography and lymphoscintigraphy, and treatments such as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery, to provide clinicians with practice-informed choice.Implications of the findings. Early management and tailored intervention can improve results in infants with CCT. Improvements in morbidity and mortality have demonstrated the importance of new management strategies.