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 as a result 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 an rare condition to help elucidate medical literature.