Pseudochylous Pleural Effusion in a case of Rheumatoid Arthiritis

  • Harsh Malik Gian Sagar Medical College,Banur,Patiala
  • Priyageet Kaur Kalsi
  • Puneet Kaur
Keywords: Pseudochylous, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Cholesterol, Pleural Effusions

Abstract

Chyliform (pseudochylous) pleural effusions accumulate gradually due to the breakdown of cellular lipids in long standing pleural effusions, such as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Tuberculosis. These are also known as cholesterol effusions due to high cholesterol levels in pleural fluid and presence of cholesterol crystals on wet mount. We present the case report of a 60 year old lady, who came to the medicine out patient department with breathlessness and generalized body ache. Radiological investigation revealed a left sided pleural effusion with atelectasis. Based on the characteristic biochemical and cytological findings in the pleural fluid, a diagnosis of pseudochylous effusion was made. Test for rheumatoid factor was done subsequently due to the presence of joint pains, and it was positive. 

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Published
2016-12-11
Section
Case Report