Chylothorax as the Initial Manifestation of Small Cell Lung Carcinoma

Chylothorax, the accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the pleural space, is a rare condition often linked to trauma, surgery or malignancy. We present the case of a 63-year-old female with a significant smoking history who was diagnosed with chylothorax as the initial manifestation of small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC). Diagnostic workup, including pleural fluid analysis and imaging, confirmed the diagnosis and revealed mediastinal lymphadenopathy and bronchial narrowing. The patient underwent chemotherapy, immunotherapy and management of recurrent effusions but ultimately succumbed to pneumonia and septic shock. Recognising chylothorax as a potential initial manifestation and understanding the risks of prolonged chyle drainage are crucial for effectively managing such complex cases.