Recurrent chylothorax as a consequence of esophageal stent

Abstract

Incidence of chylothorax post-esophageal stenting has not been reported. We present a 40-year-old female with metastatic breast cancer who presented with dyspnea. She was recently hospitalized for dysphagia secondary to a mediastinal mass requiring an esophageal stent. CT chest now reported large bilateral pleural effusions. A benign chylothorax was drained from the right side. After persistent high-output drainage, a review of her CT chest revealed thoracic duct impingement by the esophageal stent. The stent was retracted proximally, and pleural fluid output subsequently decreased. Repeat fluid analysis revealed a transudative effusion. This is the first reported case of esophageal stenting causing reversible chylothorax.

Keywords

• Chylothorax
• Esophageal stent
• Thoracic duct