Acute chylous peritonitis: Report of a case

Abstract INTRODUCTION Acute chylous peritonitis, a rare condition, is defined as an abrupt chylous fluid accumulation in the peritoneal space in the absence of a significant underlying pathology. Diagnosis is difficult due to abrupt onset and accompanying acute abdomen signs. PRESENTATION OF CASE Here we presented the case of a 32-year-old female patient who underwent laparoscopy due to acute abdomen findings and was diagnosed with acute chylous peritonitis. No underlying pathologies were detected, and only irrigation and drainage were applied. She was discharged unproblematically with a low-fat diet and somatostatin administration. No recurrence occurred, and no other pathologies were encountered during her 9-month visit. DISCUSSION Chylous fluid accumulation is reported to arise from various etiological factors such as trauma, chronic liver diseases, tuberculosis, filariasis, radiation, abdominal aorta surgery, different peritoneal infection and extended lymph node dissections. We have presented an acute chylous peritonitis case that was admitted with acute abdomen findings and followed up and treated with laparoscopy. CONCLUSION In conclusion, this case demonstrates the effectiveness of laparoscopy in acute abdomen cases in which a specific preoperative diagnosis cannot be made. Aspiration of the fluid and drainage comprise a sufficient therapy if a focus cannot be found. Postoperative somatostatin use may be beneficial.