Refractory Chylothorax ; A rare presentation of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus ( SLE )

Abstract

5-10% of SLE patients can present with pleuritis as their initial manifestation. However, chylothorax is a rare finding in patients with SLE. A 27 year old lady presented with refractory bilateral chylothorax of unknown etiology and was later diagnosed as SLE. Her chylothorax resolved with immunosuppressive therapy, however had a recurring course throughout her follow up.