Bilateral spontaneous chylothorax presenting as a neck mass.

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Thoracic Surgery
• Medical Case Reports

Background:

• Chylothorax, characterized by lymphatic fluid in the pleural space, is uncommon.
• Bilateral chylothorax is exceptionally rare, often linked to trauma or neoplastic processes.

Observation:

• A 45-year-old healthy female presented with a sudden neck mass.
• The neck mass was diagnosed as bilateral spontaneous chylothorax.
• Initial evaluation did not identify any underlying cause, such as trauma or malignancy.

Findings:

• The patient's bilateral spontaneous chylothorax was successfully managed non-surgically.
• Treatment involved thoracentesis for fluid removal and a medium-chain triglyceride diet.
• One-year follow-up showed the patient remained well, with normal imaging.

Implications:

• This case represents a previously unreported presentation of spontaneous bilateral chylothorax.
• It underscores the importance of considering rare diagnoses in unexplained presentations.
• Management strategies for spontaneous chylothorax may include dietary modifications and fluid drainage.