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:

parenteral nutrition leakage is an unusual complication of PN. It should be included in the differential diagnosis of pleural effusion.

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