CHYLOTHORAX: APPROACHES TO DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

Abstract

Chylothorax is a rare disease and epidemiologically is most commonly found in children. It can also result in severe respiratory morbidity such as pleural effusion and has a high mortality rate in children. Conservative treatment and consideration of surgical intervention may be warranted as the primary goal of chylothorax management is to remove fluid accumulation in the pleural cavity, avoid recurrence, treat associated problems, and find the underlying cause while maintaining optimal nutrition. We report two cases of chylothorax in children. Data were collected retrospectively from children diagnosed with chylothorax in the pediatric ward of RSUD Dr. Soetomo in 2022. This is a series of cases that includes two children diagnosed with chylothorax. case series involving two patients who underwent cardiac and congenital thoracic surgery and developed chylothorax. Patients receiving partial parenteral nutrition with MCT have improved drainage outcomes. After birth, thoracentesis closes the thoracic drainage, and life support is usually necessary for babies with chylothorax because they often have poor cardiopulmonary function