Idiopathic Chylopericardium: A rare entity

Seema Jaga

Abstract

Idiopathic chylopericardium is a rare clinical condition that consist of pericardial effusion composed of high concentrations of triglycerides known as chyle. It may occur because of chest trauma, mediastinal neoplasms, mediastinal tuberculosis, mediastinal radiotherapy, and thrombosis of the subclavian vein or can be idiopathic. We hereby present a case that illustrates a healthy female fitness trainer in her 50s who presented with dyspnea that progressively worsened to the point where she was referred to a Cardiologist. Subsequently, chylopericardium was diagnosed with pericardiocentesis. She successfully responded to two and a half weeks of continuous drainage and low-fat diet. It has only been a month since discharge. In conclusion, this case demonstrates a rare condition to help elucidate medical literature.