Chylous ascites is an uncommon form of ascites characterized by milky fluid rich in triglycerides. It is associated with poor lymphatic drainage. We report a case of chylous ascites revealing a follicular lymphoma.
A 73-year-old man presented with a 6-month history of abdominal distension attributed to a chylous ascitis. The thoraco-abdomino-pelvic CT scan revealed voluminous intra- and retroperitoneal mass inseparable from the duodeno-pancreatic block and encompassing the mesenteric vessels, inferior vena cava and renal vessels; abundant ascites and multiple mediastinal, coeliomesenteric, retroperitoneal, iliac and inguinal adenomegalia. The diagnosis of follicular lymphoma was retained through a radio-guided biopsy of the retroperitoneal mass. The patient had weekly paracentesis and immuno-chemotherapy. The course was unfavorable, marked by infection of the ascites fluid after two cycles of immuno-chemotherapy. Our patient developed severe sepsis and died.
Chylous ascites in conjunction with follicular lymphoma is an exceptional presentation. The pathophysiological mechanism is an impediment to subdiaphragmatic lymphatic drainage caused by external pressure, leading to leakage of dilated subserosal lymphatic ducts into the peritoneal cavity. Histological confirmation is fundamental to manage chylous ascites resulting from lymphomas.
Chylous ascites revealing lymphoma is a unique condition. The key to management is the treatment of the underlying etiology.
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