Diagnosis of chylothorax with 131I-triolein: case report

Communication between the thoracic duct and the pleural space can be demonstrated after oral administration of radiolabeled triglycerides or fatty acids of suitable chain length. A case of chylothorax was confirmed in this manner using 131I-triolein. The technique may be most useful in cases where the chylous nature of a pleural effusion is not apparent on inspection of the pleural fluid.