Lymphoscintigraphy and Radionuclide Venography in Chylothorax

Lymphoscintigraphy and radionuclide venography were performed as part of the diagnostic workup in a patient with chylothorax and no history of trauma or surgery. Lymphoscintigraphy revealed accumulation of tracer in the left chest wall and lung, and radionuclide venography demonstrated vena cava thrombosis. Chylothorax was felt to be secondary to central venous obstruction in this patient with a history of AIDS and cirrhosis. CT of the chest confirmed thrombosis of the superior and inferior vena cava. Lymphoscintigraphy and radionuclide venography are noninvasive methods useful in the workup of patients with chylothorax.