Review article: the diagnostic approach and current management of chylous ascites

ESPEN guideline on hospital nutrition

In hospitals through Europe and worldwide, the practices regarding hospital diets are very heterogeneous. Hospital diets are rarely prescribed by physicians, and sometimes the choices of diets are based on arbitrary reasons. Often prescriptions are made independently from the evaluation of nutritional status, and without taking into account the nutritional status. Therapeutic diets (low salt, gluten-free, texture and consistency modified, …) are associated with decreased energy delivery (i.e. underfeeding) and increased risk of malnutrition. The European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN) proposes here evidence-based recommendations regarding the organization of food catering, the prescriptions and indications of diets, as well as monitoring of food intake at hospital, rehabilitation center, and nursing home, all of these by taking into account the patient perspectives. We propose a systematic approach to adapt the hospital food to the nutritional status and potential food allergy or intolerances. Particular conditions such as patients with dysphagia, older patients, gastrointestinal diseases, abdominal surgery, diabetes, and obesity, are discussed to guide the practitioner toward the best evidence based therapy. The terminology of the different useful diets is defined. The general objectives are to increase the awareness of physicians, dietitians, nurses, kitchen managers, and stakeholders towards the pivotal role of hospital food in hospital care, to contribute to patient safety within nutritional care, to improve coverage of nutritional needs by hospital food, and reduce the risk of malnutrition and its related complications.

Sarcoidosis with secondary recurrent right-sided chylothorax and chylous ascites in a Caucasian male patient

Sarcoidosis is a rare multisystem autoimmune disease characterized by the presence of non-caseating granulomas in involved organs. We report a novel case of a 61-year-old Caucasian male with sarcoidosis presenting with recurrent chylothorax and chylous ascites. Pleural and ascitic fluid analysis revealed high triglyceride levels, consistent with chylothorax and chylous ascites, respectively. Common etiologies of chylous fluid such as thoracic duct surgical trauma, malignancy and infection were all excluded. Sarcoidosis was confirmed by the presence of non-caseating granulomas on a mediastinal lymph node biopsy. Conservative treatment with low-fat diet, prednisone, octreotide and multiple thoracenteses failed to effectively resolve the chylothorax. Surgical interventions with pleurodesis and thoracic duct ligation were performed, leading to the complete resolution of the chylous effusion and ascites.

Prediction of prolonged resolution of chylous ascites after radical D3 resection for colorectal cancer: A population-based experience from a high-volume center

AIM

This study was aimed to analyze the incidence, risk factors, and management of chylous ascites (CA) after radical D3 resection for colorectal cancer, and to construct a predicting nomogram for prolonged resolution of CA.

METHOD

Consecutive colorectal cancer patients who underwent radical D3 resection were included. Logistic analysis was used to identify risk factors of postoperative CA, as well as prolonged CA resolution. A predictive nomogram for prolonged resolution of CA was developed and validated internally.

RESULTS

Among 7167 patients included, 277 (3.8%) patients developed CA. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that laparoscopic operation (OR 1.507; P = 0.017) and tumors fed by the superior mesenteric artery (SMA, OR 2.456; P < 0.001) were independent risk factors of postoperative CA following radical D3 surgery for colorectal cancer. Open operation (OR 0.422; P = 0.027), drainage output on the first day of treatment (OR 1.004; P = 0.016), time to oral intake (OR 1.273; P = 0.042), and time to onset (OR 1.231; P = 0.024) were independently associated with prolonged resolution of postoperative CA (≥7 days). A predictive nomogram for prolonged CA resolution was developed with a C-index of 0.725.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of CA after radical D3 surgery of colorectal cancer was 3.8%. Open operation, drainage output on the first day of treatment, time to oral intake, and time to onset were independently associated with prolonged resolution of postoperative CA. A nomogram may assist in tailored treatment decision-making and counseling patient with treatment strategies.

Guidelines on Standard and Therapeutic Diets for Adults in Hospitals by the French Association of Nutritionist Dieticians (AFDN) and the French Speaking Society of Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (SFNCM)

AIM

Hospital food provision is subject to multiple constraints (meal production, organization, health safety, environmental respect) which influence the meal tray offered to the patient. Multiple diets can add complexity and contribute to non-consumption of the meal. To avoid undernutrition, it appeared necessary to propose guidelines for foods and diets in hospitals.

METHODS

These guidelines were developed using the Delphi method, as recommended by the HAS (French Health Authority), based on a formal consensus of experts and led by a group of practitioners and dieticians from the AFDN (French Association of Nutritionist Dieticians) and SFNCM (French Society of Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism).

RESULTS

Twenty-three recommendations were deemed appropriate and validated by a panel of 50 national experts, following three rounds of consultations, modifications and final strong agreement. These recommendations aim to define in adults: 1-harmonized vocabulary related to food and diets in hospitals; 2-quantitative and qualitative food propositions; 3-nutritional prescriptions; 4-diet patterns and patient adaptations; 5-streamlining of restrictions to reduce unnecessary diets and without scientific evidence; 6-emphasizing the place of an enriched and adapted diet for at-risk and malnourished patients.

CONCLUSION

These guidelines will enable catering services and health-care teams to rationalize hospital food and therapeutic food prescriptions in order to focus on individual needs and tasty foods. All efforts should be made to create meals that follow these recommendations while promoting the taste quality of the dishes and their presentation such that the patient rediscovers the pleasure of eating in the hospital.

Chylous Ascites, Unusual Association with Ductal Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma with Plasmacytoid Morphology: A Case Report and Literature Review

Chylous ascites represents a relatively uncommon condition. In this paper, we present a case of chyloperitoneum associated with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) and a review of literature regarding chylous ascites. A 76-year-old male patient was admitted in emergency department with acute abdomen. A pancreatic cancer was suspected. Subtotal spleno-pancreatectomy, for a nodular mass infiltrating the mild and distal portion of the pancreas, was necessary. During surgical intervention in the peritoneal cavity, a moderate quantity of whitish and thick consistency fluid with milk-like appearance was observed to be accumulated. After examination of the fluid, chyloperitoneum was diagnosed. The histologic examination showed a PDAC, with multiple emboli in lymph vessels, with tumor cells with plasmacytoid morphology, diagnosed as lymphangiosis carcinomatosa. The patient died at 3 weeks after surgical intervention. In patients with pancreatic cancer and chylous ascites, suspicion of tumor-related blockage of the lymphatic flow should be suspected. Prognosis of PDAC should be evaluated not only based on the number of lymph node metastases, but also considering the number of lymph vessels with tumor emboli and the architecture of tumor cells. This is the first reported case of a PDAC with plasmacytoid morphology of lymphangiosis carcinomatosa.

Chylous ascites in the setting of internal hernia: a reassuring sign

BACKGROUND

Chylous ascites is often reported in cases with lymphatic obstruction or after lymphatic injuries such as intraabdominal malignancies or lymphadenectomies. However, chylous ascites is also frequently encountered in operations for internal hernias. We sought to characterize the frequency and conditions when chylous ascites is encountered in general surgery patients.

METHODS

Data from patients who underwent operations for CPT codes related to open and laparoscopic abdominal and gastrointestinal surgery in our tertiary hospital from 2010 to 2019 were reviewed. Patients with the postoperative diagnosis of internal hernia were identified and categorized into three groups: Internal Hernia with chylous ascites, non-chylous ascites, and no ascites. Demographics, prior surgical history, CT findings, source of internal hernia, open or laparoscopic surgery, and preoperative labs were recorded and compared.

RESULTS

Fifty-six patients were found to have internal hernias and were included in our study. 80.3% were female and 86% had a previous Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedure (RYGBP). Laparoscopy was the main approach for all groups. Ascites was present in 46% of the cases. Specifically, chylous ascites was observed in 27% of the total operations and was exclusively (100%) found in patients with gastric-bypass history. Furthermore, it was more commonly associated with Petersen's defect (p < 0.001), while the non-chylous fluid group was associated with herniation through the mesenteric defect (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Chylous ascites is a common finding during internal hernia operations. Unlike other more morbid conditions, identification of chylous ascites during an internal hernia operation appears innocuous. However, in the context of a patient with a history of RYGBP, the presence of chylous fluid signifies the associated small bowel obstruction is likely related to an internal hernia through a patent Petersen's defect.

Chyloperitoneum as the Initial Manifestation of Gastrointestinal Neoplasia

Chyloperitoneum is defined as the presence of lymph within the peritoneal cavity, resulting from obstruction or injury of lymph ducts, mostly at the level of the gastrointestinal tract. This can occur in the context of congenital diseases, traumas, infections, neoplasms, hepatic disease, heart disease, and postoperative complications. The most common symptoms described are abdominal distention and mild pain in a course of weeks to months, with dyspnea, peritonitis, and in a few cases weight gain is observed due to the high intra-abdominal pressure. We present a case of a 56-year-old male with no significant personal history, who has a clinical picture of approximately three months of evolution, consisting in sensation of an abdominal mass predominantly in the left hemiabdomen, associated with progressive abdominal distension, changes in intestinal habit, lower limb edema, dyspepsia, occasional postprandial emesis, and unintentional weight loss of 20 kg. In non-traumatic conditions, the most frequent cause of chylous ascites is a malignancy disease followed by cirrhosis and mycobacterial infections. Taking into consideration that adenocarcinoma is the most frequently reported histologic subtype of jejunum neoplasm, and that not all cases of lymphoma debut with chylous ascites, it can be concluded that the proportion of patients that present with this condition is exceptionally low. Chyloperitoneum is an infrequent finding, having the higher detection rate in lymphatic alterations and malignancies of gastrointestinal location, in which some of the most commonly neoplasms associated with this complication are lymphoma, neuroendocrine tumors, sarcomas, and leukemia.

Lymphatic dysfunction in advanced cirrhosis: Contextual perspective and clinical implications

The lymphatic system plays a very important role in body fluid homeostasis, adaptive immunity, and the transportation of lipid and waste products. In patients with liver cirrhosis, capillary filtration markedly increases, primarily due to a rise in hydrostatic pressure, leading to enhanced production of lymph. Initially, lymphatic vasculature expansion helps to prevent fluid from accumulating by returning it back to the systemic circulation. However, the lymphatic functions become compromised with the progression of cirrhosis and, consequently, the lymphatic compensatory mechanism gets overwhelmed, contributing to the development and eventual worsening of ascites and edema. Neurohormonal changes, low-grade chronic inflammation, and compounding effects of predisposing factors such as old age, obesity, and metabolic syndrome appear to play a significant role in the lymphatic dysfunction of cirrhosis. Sustained portal hypertension can contribute to the development of intestinal lymphangiectasia, which may rupture into the intestinal lumen, resulting in the loss of protein, chylomicrons, and lymphocyte, with many clinical consequences. Rarely, due to high pressure, the rupture of the subserosal lymphatics into the abdomen results in the formation of chylous ascites. Despite being highly significant, lymphatic dysfunctions in cirrhosis have largely been ignored; its mechanistic pathogenesis and clinical implications have not been studied in depth. No recommendation exists for the diagnostic evaluation and therapeutic strategies, with respect to lymphatic dysfunction in patients with cirrhosis. This article discusses the perspectives and clinical implications, and provides insights into the management strategies for lymphatic dysfunction in patients with cirrhosis.

Idiopathic acute chylous peritonitis during pregnancy, mimicking perforated acute appendicitis: A case report

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CA is extremely rare, especially in pregnancy, previously described in the setting of pancreatitis but can present as perforated appendicitis.

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In early pregnancy there is a diagnostic dilemma and once other sources of sepsis are excluded a diagnostic laparoscopy should be considered.

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During diagnostic laparoscopy fluid should be assessed for triglycerides, microscopy/culture/cytology and a potential precipitating agent.

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Medium fatty-chain acid diet with MCT oil supplementation and dietician input is crucial in management.

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Unclear role of antibiotics, on the balance of risk benefit it was deemed appropriate to administer antibiotics.

Introduction and importance

Chylous ascites (CA) is an extremely rare presentation in pregnancy and poses a diagnostic challenge in clinical practice. There have only been a few case reports of CA in pregnancy with the majority of cases found incidentally at the time of caesarean section or in the context of pancreatitis.

Case presentation

A 36-year-old female who was 13 weeks pregnant had clinically presented right iliac fossa pain with peritonitis and had signs of sepsis. Once other potential sources of sepsis were excluded, had proceeded to diagnostic laparoscopy performed by the treating consultant given there were no appropriate out-of-hours imaging modalities available.

Clinical discussion

This case report hopes to advocate for the effective intervention of a diagnostic laparoscopy in this setting and other important considerations for management during first trimester pregnancy. Upon diagnosis the patient was put onto a medium chain fatty acid diet with excellent outcomes post operatively and at the outpatient follow up. The case report has been reported in line with the SCARE 2020 criteria [11].

Conclusion

Chylous ascites is a rare finding and additionally is even more rare to cause peritonism. What we found most interesting in this case is that in the absence of any other potential sources of infection, how chylous ascites not only presented with peritonism but prompted a septic response. Another pertinent issue is that in pregnancy we are limited with investigative options and therefore diagnosis will depend on the clinical presentation and decision for prompt diagnostic/therapeutic laparoscopy should be strongly considered.

Chylothorax post transaxillary first rib resection for thoracic outlet syndrome

We present a patient who developed high output chyle leak post left transaxillary first rib resection for venous thoracic outlet syndrome. The high output chylorrhoea was successfully treated by conservative measures, bed rest, parenteral nutrition and low-fat diet. The patient was discharged after an 18-day hospital stay with a complete resolution of his chylous fistula prior to discharge. This is the first documented chylothorax post transaxillary first rib resection likely due to anomalous chyle anatomy.

Application of ultrasound-guided intranodal lymphangiography and embolisation in cancer patients with postoperative lymphatic leakage

BACKGROUND

Traumatic lymphatic leakage is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication. The purpose of this study was to introduce ultrasound-guided intranodal lymphangiography and embolisation techniques for postoperative lymphatic leakage in patients with cancer.

METHODS

From January 2018 through June 2020, seven cancer patients (three males, four females, aged 59-75 years [mean 67.57 ± 6.11 years]) developed lymphatic leakage after abdominal or pelvic surgery, with drainage volumes ranging from 550 to 1200 mL per day. The procedure and follow-up of ultrasound-guided intranodal lymphangiography and embolisation were recorded. This study retrospectively analysed the technical success rate, operative time, length of hospital stay, clinical efficacy, and complications.

RESULTS

The operation was technically successful in all patients. Angiography revealed leakage, and embolisation was performed in all seven patients (7/7, 100%). The operative time of angiography and embolisation was 41 to 68 min, with an average time of 53.29 ± 10.27 min. The mean length of stay was 3.51 ± 1.13 days. Lymph node embolisation was clinically successful in five patients (5/7, 71.43%), who had a significant reduction in or disappearance of chylous ascites. The other two patients received surgical treatment 2 weeks later due to poor results after embolisation. All patients were followed for 2 weeks. No serious complications or only minor complications were found in all the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasound-guided intranodal lymphangiography and embolisation were well tolerated by the patients, who experienced a low incidence of complications. Early intervention is recommended for cancer patients with postoperative lymphatic leakage.

Chylous ascites following elective abdominal aortic aneurysm repair

Postoperative chylous ascites is a rare complication of abdominal surgery. Chyle depletion results in nutritional, immunologic and metabolic deficiencies, making it a serious and potentially life-threatening condition for which prompt diagnosis and management is imperative. A 72-year-old male was referred for open repair of a 62 cm juxtarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Following resumption of diet, he developed abdominal distention. Therapeutic paracenteses confirmed chylous ascites. Failed conservative management and lymphatic embolization lead to surgical sealance of lymphatic leak using glue. Postoperatively, a full diet was tolerated with no further ascites. Paracentesis is the diagnostic modality of choice in evaluating patients with ascites. Management is challenging and should be multifaceted and tailored to individual patient needs. Cornerstones of therapy include correction of the underlying etiology and conservative measures. When conservative measures fail, other interventions can be considered, such as somatostatin analogs, surgical ligation or glue embolization.

Chinese guidelines on the management of liver cirrhosis (abbreviated version)

Based on reviews of the literature and experts' consensus, the Chinese Society of Hepatology developed guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of liver cirrhosis, in order to improve clinical practice. In addition to what has been covered in previously published guidelines on the management of cirrhosis complications, these guidelines add new sections and provide updates. The guidelines emphasize the early diagnosis of the cause and assessment of complications. Comprehensive treatments including etiological treatment and complication management should be initiated immediately. In addition, regular monitoring, especially surveillance of hepatocellular carcinoma, is crucial for managing patients.

Intestinal malrotation causing chylous ascites in an adolescent: a case report

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Chylous ascites due to intestinal malrotation is a rare occurrence, especially in adolescent and adult patients.

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Chylous ascites due to intestinal malrotation typically occurs early in life with painless distension of the abdomen.

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Our case is a male adolescent who presented with abdominal pain and a history of congenital hernia repair.

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Ladd’s procedure was successfully performed in our case with no complications.

Introduction

Intestinal malrotation is a rare etiology of chylous ascites in adolescents. Chylous ascites is caused by lymphatic system disarrangement, which can result in an anomalous build-up of a lymphatic fluid rich in lipid, namely chyle in the peritoneal cavity.

Presentation of case

We present a case of a 16-year-old Saudi Arabian male who came to the emergency department with right upper quadrant pain associated with difficulty in passing stool for one day and a history of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) repair at the age of 4 months. Free fluid in the abdomen was noticed in the bedside ultrasound. Abdominopelvic computed tomography revealed dilated small bowel loops and a whirl sign of the mesentery, which indicated intestinal torsion. The patient was treated using Ladd’s procedure, and a large volume of chylous fluid was removed from the abdomen. Postoperatively, the abdominal drain revealed no chyle, and the patient was followed-up as an outpatient at which point, he reported no abdominal pain.

Discussion

Intestinal malrotation is more commonly reported in children and associated with congenital chylous ascites. Chylous ascites by itself is a rare occurrence, and very few cases attribute it to intestinal malrotation in adults. Surgical management with Ladd’s procedure is a well-documented surgery in pediatric patients, and yet it was successfully performed in our adolescent patient.

Conclusion

Surgical management of chylous ascites secondary to intestinal malrotation in an adolescent, which is considered novel in this age group, including peritoneal lavage of chyle, resulted in favorable outcomes.

A case of left renal atrophy following the development of an infected giant retroperitoneal chylous cyst after laparoscopic para-aortic lymphadenectomy for endometrial cancer

Chylous leakage is caused by interruption of lymphatic vessels carrying triglyceride-rich lymph during para-aortic lymph node dissection in patients with gynecological malignancies. Our search of literature revealed no report like our case that the renal atrophy was late onset after healing of the chylous cyst infection. A case is 60-year-old. She was preoperatively diagnosed with endometrial cancer, endometrioid carcinoma FIGO grade 3, stage IA of the FIGO system. Laparoscopic-modified radical hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy, pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy and partial omentectomy were performed. On the 16th postoperative day, a percutaneous drainage was performed, and revealed chylous effusion from the lymph cyst. The drainage tube was removed, and she discharged on the 34th postoperative day. On the 99th postoperative day, a follow-up plain CT to check for a recurrence of endometrial cancer revealed atrophy of left kidney. It is probable that the chylous leakage was the primary cause of renal atrophy. Therefore, it is crucial to prevent chylous leakage during surgery to avoid repeating the same complication again.

Refractory Chylous Ascites with Chylothorax and an Umbilical Hernia in a Patient Ineligible for a Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt

BACKGROUND Chylous ascites is a rare condition, which is defined by accumulation of a milky fluid due to high triglyceride levels. It is most commonly secondary to malignancy, liver cirrhosis, infection, and tuberculosis. CASE REPORT A 21-year-old woman from rural Indonesia, came to the hospital with chronic dyspnea and a history of repeated paracentesis. Six years ago, she was diagnosed with chronic hepatitis B. For the past 2 years, she had complaints of progressive dyspnea and increased abdominal swelling. On examination, there was dullness on chest percussion and decreased breath sounds. Shifting dullness was positive on abdominal examination. Paracentesis and thoracentesis were performed and showed high triglyceride levels. She underwent an abdominal computed tomography scan and was diagnosed with liver cirrhosis, complicated with chylous ascites and chylothorax. Repeated paracentesis was performed as a therapeutic approach; she had strict diet guidelines, and was prescribed octreotide, furosemide, spironolactone, and albumin. Despite this treatment, two years later, she developed an umbilical hernia complicated with ulceration. Hernia repair was not possible due to her comorbidities. She was indicated for a transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) for the refractory chylous ascites. However, this could not be performed as the patient could not afford this expensive procedure, which was not covered by insurance. CONCLUSIONS Management of refractory chylous ascites is challenging, especially in underdeveloped countries due to socioeconomic problems and limited health care facilities. Although TIPS is indicated in refractory chylous ascites, repeated paracentesis can be useful as an alternative method.

Chyle Leakage after Esophageal Cancer Surgery

Surgeons recommend dissecting lymph nodes in the thorax, abdomen, and neck during surgery for esophageal cancer because of the possibility of metastasis to the lymph nodes in those areas through the lymphatic plexus of the esophageal submucosal layer. Extensive lymph node dissection is essential for accurate staging and is thought to improve survival. However, it can result in several complications, including chyle leakage, which refers to continuous lymphatic fluid leakage and can occur in the thorax, abdomen, and neck. Malnutrition, fluid imbalance, and immune compromise may result from chyle leakage, which can be potentially life-threatening if it persists. Therefore, various treatment methods, including conservative treatment, pharmacological treatment such as octreotide infusion, and interventions such as thoracic duct embolization and surgical thoracic duct ligation, have been applied. In this article, the risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment methods of chyle leakage after esophagectomy are reviewed.

The retrospective research of enteral nutrition with medium-chain triglyceride and total parenteral nutrition support of postoperative chylothorax in adults

Background:

Chylothorax is caused by thoracic lymphatic system injuries that leads to the lymph extravasating into the thoracic cavity. There are few reports comparing the therapeutic effects of enteral nutrition with medium-chain triglyceride and total parenteral nutrition, and the results are inconsistent. Our study aimed to research the optimum nutrition support method for chylothorax.

Study design:

We retrospectively reviewed 35 chylothorax patients after heart and chest surgery from 2014 to 2018, at West China Hospital of Sichuan University, among them there were 27 post-heart surgery patients. We analyzed the therapeutic effects and costs of enteral nutrition with medium-chain triglyceride (E group) and total parenteral nutrition (T group) for chylothorax.

Results:

The results were similar in patients with all surgeries and patients with only post heart surgery. The total cost during hospitalization in E group was higher than T group (P < 0.01), whereas the nutrition support cost was lower (P < 0.001). The length of hospital stay was longer in E group than T group (P > 0.05). Time from admission to surgery was shorter and from surgery to chylothorax diagnosis was longer in E group compared with T group. Time to resolution and removal of drainage was shorter in E group than T group but the differences were not significant.

Conclusion:

The therapeutic effects in enteral nutrition with medium-chain triglyceride and total parenteral nutrition had no obvious differences. Moreover, enteral nutrition with medium-chain triglyceride is safer and more economical. Therefore, we suggest that enteral nutrition with medium-chain triglyceride could be the first choice to treat postoperative chylothorax when the gastrointestinal tract function is allowed, and this result could be considered for postoperative chylous ascites.

Chylous Ascites and Pleural Effusion Treated With Intravenous Octreotide

Chylous ascites (CA) is uncommon in cirrhosis. It often presents as diuretic-resistant ascites and is associated with increased mortality. Diagnosis is done by the detection of triglyceride-rich ascitic fluid. There are no published guidelines on the management of CA. We describe the case of a middle-aged female who presented with CA secondary to cirrhosis, and the challenges associated with her treatment and her management with the use of intravenous octreotide.

Novel technique to manage refractory chylous ascites with carbon nanoparticle suspension in infants

OBJECTIVE

Chylous ascites (CA) is a rare form of ascites that results from the leakage of lipid-rich lymph into the peritoneal cavity. In infants, CA is mostly caused by lymphatic malformation or unknown reasons. The creation of a shunt for the lymphorrhea is the last option for patients unresponsive to all other conservative treatments. Localization of the leakage is a critical problem during surgery. We applied a carbon nanoparticle suspension (CNS) in CA patients to locate the external lymphatic leakage and evaluated its utility during surgery.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twelve infants with CA were treated in our center recently. Ten patients received laparotomy, one refused therapy, and one was cured after undergoing conservative treatment. Recently, two infants with CA received CNS in the visceral peritoneum during laparotomy. The results of the traditional procedure were compared to our innovative technique for CA to evaluate the use of CNS in treating CA.

RESULTS

The features of the baseline data did not differ substantially. Location of the leakage with CNS was employed in 2 of the 10 patients whose lymphatic leakages were identified with the resolution of the refractory CA. Overall, in 5 patients, ascites was resolved successfully. The refractory CA was resolved more effectively in patients in whom the leakage site was identified with CNS than in patients in whom the leakage site could not be identified under conventional surgery.

CONCLUSIONS

Injecting CNS improved the accuracy of lymphorrhagia leakage site identification and the outcomes of infants who underwent surgical treatment for refractory CA.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

II-III.

Vaginal discharge caused by lymphatic malformation identified by lymphoscintigraphy combined with T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging

Prepubertal vaginal discharge is most commonly caused by vulvovaginitis and is rarely caused by lymphatic malformations, resulting in chylous vaginal discharge. The diagnosis of chylous vaginal discharge remains a challenge because of a knowledge gap. We describe a 12-year-old girl with intermittent vaginal discharge for 10 years. Although we found a high signal in the vagina on T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the final diagnosis, vaginal lymphatic leakage, was established on lymphoscintigraphy. Lymphatic leakage in the vagina on lymphoscintigraphy was the key imaging feature of chylous vaginal discharge in this patient. Moreover, diffuse radioactivity was found in the abdomen and thorax on lymphoscintigraphy, which indicated the multiple cystic lymphatic malformations and intestinal lymphangiectasia combined with T2-weighted MRI. Thus, T2-weighted MRI could be used in combination with lymphoscintigraphy to simply identify chylous vaginal discharge.

Spontaneous Chylous Ascites After Liver Transplantation Secondary to Everolimus: A Case Report

Chylous ascites (CA) is an uncommon entity with several etiologies. Only a few cases of CA have been reported as a complication after liver transplantation (LT). Most of these cases occurred within 1 month after surgery and typically resulted from traumatic intraoperative injury leading to disruption of lymphatics. Although peripheral lymphedema has been frequently correlated with use of calcineurin inhibitors, associated spontaneous CA has only been reported in a few cases after renal transplantation. We report a case of delayed spontaneous CA after LT caused by the use of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitor everolimus. Everolimus was introduced in our patient early after transplantation because of tacrolimus-induced microangiopathy, and years later the patient presented with spontaneous CA. After excluding other causes of CA, everolimus was discontinued, and immunosuppression was maintained by increasing prednisone and continuing mycophenolate mofetil. Additionally, the patient was treated with percutaneous drain placement and began a low-fat, high-protein diet. One month later the patient had complete resolution of symptoms with no recurrence of ascites. To our knowledge, this is the first case of delayed-onset CA caused by everolimus after LT.

First Case of Chylous Ascites after Laparoscopic Myomectomy: A Case Report with a Literature Review

Introduction: Chylous ascites is a rare form of ascites characterized by milk-like peritoneal fluid, rich in triglycerides. Clinical signs and symptoms include abdominal distention, pain, nausea, and vomiting. In gynecology, the most common cause for its occurrence is lymph dissection leading to impairment of major lymphatic vessels. There are only a few reported cases of chylous ascites arising after operations for benign diseases. Case report: We report a case of a 46-year-old female patient, who underwent laparoscopy for a myomatous node with chylous ascites occurring on post-surgery Day 2. The ascites was conservatively managed. The exact cause of the chyloperitonitis could not be determined. Conclusion: Although extremely rarely, chylous ascites may also occur in operative interventions for benign diseases in gynecological surgery.

Current approaches to the management of patients with cirrhotic ascites

This review describes current approaches to the management of patients with cirrhotic ascites in relation to the severity of its clinical manifestations. The PubMed database, the Google Scholar retrieval system, the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and the reference lists from related articles were used to search for relevant publications. Articles corresponding to the aim of the review were selected for 1991-2018 using the keywords: "liver cirrhosis," "portal hypertension," "ascites," "pathogenesis," "diagnostics," and "treatment." Uncomplicated and refractory ascites in patients with cirrhosis were the inclusion criteria. The literature analysis has shown that despite the achievements of modern hepatology, the presence of ascites is associated with poor prognosis and high mortality. The key to successful management of patients with ascites may be the stratification of the risk of an adverse outcome and personalized therapy. Pathogenetically based approach to the choice of pharmacotherapy and optimization of minimally invasive methods of treatment may improve the quality of life and increase the survival rate of this category of patients.

Simultaneous chylous ascites and chylothorax during ramucirumab plus docetaxel chemotherapy in a patient with non-small lung cell cancer

A 69-year-old woman was diagnosed as having non-small cell lung cancer (adenocarcinoma, T1aN3M1b). She had no history of surgery or abdominal trauma. She was treated with ramucirumab (10 mg/kg) plus docetaxel (60 mg/m²) intravenously (RAM + DTX) every 3 weeks. Although an enhanced CT examination showed a partial tumor response after eight courses of RAM + DTX, she gradually began to experience abdominal fullness with severe peripheral pitching edema. Her body weight increased by 18 kg in 2 months and RAM + DTX chemotherapy was discontinued. An enhanced CT examination showed a large amount of ascites and pleural effusion, with no obstructions of the central vein or lymphatic ducts. The ascites were white and milky in appearance and contained 527 mg/dL of triglyceride. In addition, her pleural effusion was also white and milky in appearance. No further increases in ascites and pleural effusion were observed thereafter. Four months after her last RAM + DTX chemotherapy, she continued to exhibit a partial response and no increases in ascites or pleural effusion were present. The chylous effusion might have been caused by the RAM + DTX chemotherapy.

Calcium Channel Blocker-Associated Chyloperitoneum in Patients Receiving Peritoneal Dialysis: A Systematic Review

Unlike chyloperitoneum associated with clinical conditions including cancer, cirrhosis, and traumatic surgery, calcium channel blocker (CCB)-associated chyloperitoneum is rarely discussed in comprehensive studies on chyloperitoneum. We aimed to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of CCB-associated chyloperitoneum in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. The MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, CiNii, and RISS databases were systematically searched for clinical studies on CCB-associated chyloperitoneum in PD patients published up to 31 July 2018. A total of 17 studies (four cohort studies, one case series, and 12 case reports) were selected. Eight CCBs, namely amlodipine, benidipine, diltiazem, lercanidipine, manidipine, nifedipine, nisoldipine, and verapamil, were reported to be associated with chyloperitoneum; manidipine and lercanidipine were the most frequently reported. The average prevalence of chyloperitoneum for lercanidipine was 25.97% in three cohort studies, two of which had a moderate or high risk of bias. Most of the studies revealed chyloperitoneum development within 4 days of initiation of CCB therapy and chyloperitoneum disappearance within 24 h of CCB withdrawal. The results of this study emphasise on the need for awareness among healthcare professionals regarding CCB-associated chyloperitoneum in PD patients. Further studies elucidating the causality and clinical implication of CCB-associated chyloperitoneum are needed.

Abdominal ascites in children as the presentation of eosinophilic gastroenteritis: A surgeon's perspective

BACKGROUND

Abdominal ascites is a common problem in general surgery. The causes include parasitic diseases, tuberculosis, malignancies, hypoalbuminemia, abdominal inflammatory diseases, and peritonitis. Eosinophilic gastroenteritis (EG) has also been reported to be an infrequent cause. To our knowledge, most instances of abdominal ascites from EG have occurred in adults and been reported by physicians or gastroenterologists. Herein, we report a small series of children who presented with eosinophilic ascites from a surgeon's perspective.

METHODS

Five children with EG (male: 3; female: 2) were selected for review of medical data and diagnostic reports.

RESULTS

The patients typically presented with intermittent abdominal pain (n = 5), diarrhea and nausea (n = 2), abdominal distension (n = 2), fever (n = 2), and histories of allergic disease (n = 3). Peripheral eosinophilia was regularly noted, three children showing elevated IgE levels. Abdominal ultrasound and CT performed in each instance demonstrated abdominal ascites. Surgical intervention was elected in two patients. Dietary control and a methylprednisolone regimen were then instituted in all children, followed by full clinical remissions. After a regular follow-up, all patients are doing well.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgeons should be aware of EG as a rare cause of ascites, even in a pediatric population and especially in children with strong histories of allergic diseases, peripheral blood eosinophilia, and/or family histories of EG. It is important to avoid unnecessary surgical intervention, because dietary control and methylprednisolone treatment are effective remedies.

Retroperitoneal exploration with Vicryl mesh and fibrin tissue sealant for refractory chylous ascites

BACKGROUND

Congenital chylous ascites poses a significant challenge in neonatal care, and often results in prolonged, complex hospital stays and increased mortality. Few effective options exist in refractory cases.

METHODS

Patients aged 0 to 12 months with refractory chylous ascites underwent retroperitoneal exploration after medical treatment and minimally invasive therapies were unsuccessful. The retroperitoneum was completely exposed via left and right medial visceral rotation and opening the lesser sac. Visible leaks were ligated, and alternating layers of fibrin glue and Vicryl mesh were used to cover the entire retroperitoneum.

RESULTS

All 4 patients had resolution of their chylous ascites. None required reoperation or reintervention for chyle leaks. All achieved goal enteral feeds at a median of 29 days postoperatively and were discharged from hospital at a median of 42 days postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

Management of chylous ascites is extremely challenging in refractory cases. Complete retroperitoneal exposure with fibrin glue and Vicryl mesh application offers a definitive, reliable therapy for achieving cessation of lymphatic leakage and ultimate recovery for patients who fail all nonoperative approaches.

STUDY TYPE

Therapeutic.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Laparoscopic Management of Chylous Leakage Using a Direct Lymph Node Injection with Methylene Blue as a Leakage Point Location Strategy in a Patient with Retroperitoneal Extragonadal Seminoma

Background: The first-line treatment in cases of chylous leakage is conservative, and operation should be considered only in patients who fail to respond to this treatment. The main clinical concern is the difficulty of intraoperative localization of the site of leakage that can affect surgical outcome.

Case Presentation: A 33-year-old man presented with a 4-month history of abdominal pain and weight loss. CT scan revealed enlarged retroperitoneal lymph nodes. Retroperitoneal lymph node biopsy was performed owing to the suspicion of lymphoproliferative disease, with a pathological result of nonspecific adenitis. Because of persistence of pain, an abdominal CT scan showed a large left retroperitoneal fluid collection that was found to be compatible with chyle after drainage. Conservative treatment was established, but because of its failure, surgical management was attempted by the laparoscopic approach. Intraoperative direct lymph node injection of methylene blue was used as a leakage point location strategy that allows selective ligation of the site of leakage. Thereafter a gradual reduction in chyle output to zero was observed.

Conclusion: The laparoscopic approach could be a feasible and successful method for the management of chyle leakage in patients refractory to conservative treatment. Intraoperative direct lymph node injection of methylene blue could be a useful technique to facilitate detection of the site of leakage during operation.

The role of oral oil administration in displaying the chylous tubes and preventing chylous leakage in laparoscopic para-aortic lymphadenectomy

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

This study is aimed to investigate the possibility of preoperative oral oil administration in displaying the chylous tubes and preventing chylous leakage in laparoscopic para-aortic lymphadenectomy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this retrospective nonrandomized study, of the 30 patients with gynecological malignancies who had indications for laparoscopic para-aortic lymphadenectomy up to renal vessels, 15 were administered preoperative oral oil (oil a administration) (control group) at our hospital between September 2017 and June 2018. The chylous tube displaying rates, incidences of chylous leakage, and other perioperative data of the two groups were compared.

RESULTS

Successful display of chylous tubes was observed in 93.3% (14/15) patients in the oil administration group. The chylous leakage was zero in the oil administration group, and 33.3% (5/15) in the control group. The postoperative drainage duration (4.1 ± 1.0 days vs 7.6 ± 1.4 days, P = 0.000), somatostatin application time (0 day vs 5.9 ± 0.8 days), and postoperative hospital stay (6.0 ± 2.3 days vs 9.1 ± 2.1 days, P = 0.001) were significantly shorter in the oil administration group. The total cost is lower in the oil administration group (4972.52 ± 80.54 dollars vs 6260.80 ± 484.47 dollars, P = 0.000).

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative oil administration is a feasible and effective method to display the chylous tubes and to prevent the chylous leakage in para-aortic lymphadenectomy.

Underlying etiology determines the outcome in atraumatic chylous ascites

Chylous ascites is an uncommon entity and infectious etiology is the most common cause in developing countries. However, recently, whether there is any change in trend of etiologies in developing countries is not known. In this study, a retrospective analysis of the data of cases of atraumatic chylous ascites was conducted. Twelve patients of atraumatic chylous ascites with a mean age of 35 years were studied and 6 of them were males. The mean duration of symptoms was 9.6 months and the clinical presentation was abdominal distension (12 cases), pain abdomen (10 cases), loss of appetite and weight (9 cases), peripheral lymphadenopathy (4 cases) and fever (3 cases). Etiologies were tuberculosis (3 cases), malignancy (2 cases), radiotherapy related (2 cases), pancreatitis related (2 cases), lymphatic malformation (2 cases) and multifactorial (1 case). Eight improved with conservative measures, 2 were lost to follow up and 2 died. Our outcomes found infectious etiology still as the most common cause of atraumatic chylous ascites. Benign treatable causes could be managed successfully with conservative measures while malignant etiology had a poor prognosis. Underlying etiology determines the outcome in atraumatic chylous ascites.

WITHDRAWN: Underlying etiology determines the outcome in atraumatic chylous ascites

Ahead of Print article withdrawn by publisher. This withdrawal is for above article due to the misoperation of advance online publication.

Mycobacterial chylous ascites: report of three cases and systematic review

Background

Chylous ascites is an uncommon presentation of mycobacterial infection.

Methods

We report three cases of tubercular chylous ascites, and in addition, we performed a systematic review of the published literature for the clinical presentation, treatment, and outcomes of mycobacterial chylous ascites. We followed the PRISMA guidelines for the systematic review.

Results

A total of 33 cases (including three of ours) were included. The mean age of the reported cases was 32.54 ± 17.56 years, and a male predominance (76%) was noted. The predominant clinical features were abdominal distension, abdominal pain, fever and loss of appetite and weight. Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) and Mycobacterium avium-intracellulare (MAC) infection were responsible for 16 and 15 cases, respectively. All patients with MAC related chylous ascites had HIV infection. The mechanisms were related to lymph nodal enlargement, constrictive pericarditis and remote scrofuloderma. Overall, there was 29% mortality. Use of anti-mycobacterial therapy with use of total parenteral nutrition, octreotide and medium chain triglyceride-based diet resulted in improvement in the rest of the cases. The cause of death in our case was anti-tubercular therapy-induced hepatitis; three deaths were due to disseminated mycobacterial infection, one due to cardiopulmonary failure and unknown in four patients.

Conclusion

Chylous ascites due to mycobacterial infection is uncommon and associated with poor outcome. However, early diagnosis and nutritional management along with antimycobacterial therapy can improve outcome.

Idiopathic chylous ascites in a patient with HIV infection: response to total parenteral nutrition and octreotide therapy

The authors describe a 47-year-old man infected with human immunodeficiency virus admitted for ascites and weight loss. Ascitic fluid analysis revealed chylous ascites (triglycerides 444 mg/dl) with negative microbiological tests. Neoplasia, cardiac disease and liver cirrhosis were excluded after an extensive diagnostic workout. Exploratory laparotomy with tissue sampling did not clarify ascites etiology. During hospital admission, patient status gradually deteriorated, severe malnutrition developed and ascites became refractory to diuretics. Total parenteral nutrition and octreotide therapy were started and maintained for 3 weeks with ascites resolution and no relapse after oral diet resumption. Chylous ascites is a rare entity with several causes that compromise intra-abdominal lymphatic drainage. This case illustrates the difficulty in establishing etiology in some patients and the effectiveness of total parenteral nutrition plus octreotide therapy in idiopathic chylous ascites in HIV-infected patients.