This site is intended for healthcare professionals

Go to /sign-in page

You can view 5 more pages before signing in

Go to /pro/cpd-dashboard page

This page is worth 0.05 CPD credits. CPD dashboard

Go to /account/subscription-details page

This page is worth 0.05 CPD credits. Upgrade to Pro

Ascites (chylous)

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

Authoring team

Chylous ascites usually occurs when there is massive obstruction of abdominal lymphatic drainage. It is a milky white ascites, rich in chylomicrons from mesenteric lymphatics.

It is usually secondary to malignant involvement of the para-aortic lymph nodes by lymphoma or metastatic testicular tumour.

Less frequently, it is caused by:

  • primary fistula - the fistula should be closed with nonabsorbable sutures
  • primary lymphatic disease
  • other secondary causes:
    • postradiation obstruction
    • postoperative - very rarely

Treatment is surgical. Primary fistulas where present should be closed with nonabsorbable sutures. When surgery is unsuccessful, a Leveen peritoneal venous shunt should be employed to return accumulated peritoneal lymph to the central circulation.


Create an account to add page annotations

Annotations allow you to add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation. E.g. a website or number. This information will always show when you visit this page.

The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

Connect

Copyright 2024 Oxbridge Solutions Limited, a subsidiary of OmniaMed Communications Limited. All rights reserved. Any distribution or duplication of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Oxbridge Solutions receives funding from advertising but maintains editorial independence.