Abstract
Chylothorax is a rare condition characterized by lymph accumulation in the pleural
space. When it occurs independent of trauma, it is even more rare and difficult to
treat as identification of lymphatic leak is unpredictable. In addition, treatment
of this condition with conventional lymphangiography and thoracic duct embolization
may not result in positive outcomes. As such, the role of contrast-enhanced dynamic
magnetic resonance lymphangiography to guide treatment is key to maximizing success
with the advantage of localizing the site of lymphatic leak. Herein, we summarize
etiologies of nontraumatic chylothorax, offer an updated treatment algorithm to stratify
affected patients and determine appropriate treatment options, and review procedural
techniques critical to efficient and effective treatment.
Keywords
thoracic duct - chylous - chylothorax - lymphatic - interventional radiology - pleural
space
