Nutrithorax: an uncommon complication of parenteral nutrition

INTRODUCTION parenteral nutrition (PN) is commonly used as a nutritional support option. It may cause complications, partly due to a central venous access. Chylothorax is an accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the pleural space. CASE REPORT a 57-year-old man was admitted for cholecystectomy. A complicated postoperative period required PN. Cardiorespiratory symptoms started while receiving PN, and a bilateral pleural and pericardial effusion was identified. It was initially interpreted as chylothorax due to its milky appearance and high triglyceride content. A CT scan confirmed a malposition of the CVC with PN leakage at the level of the innominate venous trunk. It was surgically repaired. DISCUSSION PN leakage is an unusual complication of PN. It should be included in the differential diagnosis of pleural effusion.