Seat belt-induced chylothorax: a cause of idiopathic chylothorax?

Agrawal, Vishal; Doelken, Peter; Sahn, Steven A · Chest · 2007

case_report · Level V

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Abstract

Chylothoraces are associated with multiple etiologies including non-Hodgkin lymphoma and surgical trauma, representing 50% and 25% of all chylothoraces, respectively. Intrathoracic operations such as repair of coarctation of the aorta and esophagectomy are commonly associated with surgical trauma. Idiopathic chylothoraces may account for up to 15% of all chylothoraces. When a thorough evaluation finding is negative, further history to identify possible blunt, nonpenetrating trauma to the chest is warranted.

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