[Chylous reflux and chylous ascites in lymphatic dysplasia, with the lymphographic demonstration of mediastinal and retroperitoneal lymphatic cysts].

Two patients with congenital dysplasia of the lymphatic system and with chylous ascites are described. In one 24-year old woman with this rare condition, it was possible to demonstrate for the first time numerous mediastinal lymphatic cysts during lymphangiography. Both patients showed an abnormality of the retroperitoneal lymphatics, consisting of lymphatic dilatation and cysts. In the investigation of chylous ascites, direct lymphangiography must be regarded as a valuable and necessary investigation.