Sildenafil as a Potential Therapeutic Option for Refractory Congenital Chylous Ascites in a Premature Neonate: A Case Report and Literature Review

Introduction

Chylous ascites (CA) is a rare entity which can result from congenital malformation of the lymphatic system or develop secondary to trauma, inflammation, abdominal surgery, or neoplasia (Sooklin L et al., BMJ Case Rep 2020; 13: e235849). The therapeutic approach in the management of CA includes the use of total parenteral nutrition (TPN) or a medium-chain triglyceride (MCT)-based diet, serial paracentesis if required, and medical or surgical treatment options (Campisi C et al., J Vasc Surg 2006; 43: 1244–1248).

This report describes a preterm infant with congenital CA who was resistant to TPN, an MCT-based diet, octreotide, propranolol, and repeated paracentesis, but who was successfully treated with the addition of sildenafil.

Publication History

Article published online:
06 August 2024