Evaluation of chylothorax in infants and children

Abstract

The pathogenesis of infantile chylothorax (IC) varies widely and is very complicated. Frequently it causes difficulties in treating such patients. The recent improvements in imaging technology have made it possible to evaluate the central lymphatic system and clarify some previously unknown pathophysiologies. Additionally, with marked progress in therapeutic techniques, it is becoming increasingly important to evaluate the underlying condition of patients with IC, and radiologists can contribute to it. Herein, we are going to review the pathophysiologies of IC with imaging findings.