Traumatic chylothorax following blunt thoracic trauma

We present a case of delayed chylothorax after blunt trauma precipitated by increased central venous pressure secondary to right heart failure, aggressive fluid resuscitation and vasopressor use. Traumatic chylothorax should be considered in patients with pleural effusion in the setting of blunt chest trauma as sudden hyperextension of the spine can disrupt the thoracic duct. Delayed diagnosis is not uncommon due to an average latency period of 2-10 days. Pleural fluid with triglyceride level > 110 mg/dL and chylomicrons is diagnostic. Initial management consists of chyle reduction through diet modification (high protein/restricted fat diet). Octreotide can be used as a pharmacological adjunct. Refractory or high-output cases (>1000 mL/day) may require surgical ligation of the thoracic duct. Early identification and intervention are paramount as untreated chylothorax is associated with significant morbidity and mortality rates up to 50 %.