A rare case of lumbar vertebral lymphangioma presenting as chylothorax.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT

The lumbar lymphangioma occurs rarely. Several studies have presented cases with the involvement of multiple vertebrae in presence or absence of the other bones and/or adjacent soft tissue. We elucidate a rare case of lumbar lymphangioma which presents as chylothorax.

PURPOSE

To report a rare case of lumbar lymphangioma presenting as chylothorax.

STUDY DESIGN

A case report.

METHODS

A 32-year-old man was admitted with lumbar and chest pain. Lumbar plain radiography, computed tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging revealed L2 vertebra's sclerosis and destruction with canal compression leading up to vertebral lymph/hemangioma impression. Chest radiograph revealed a left-sided pleural effusion that further examination confirmed the chylothorax. Because of medical treatment failure in managing the chylothorax, surgical exploration was performed on. The involved vertebra was resected and stabilized with a mass ligation of its adjacent soft tissues. Histopathologic study of the resected material confirmed the diagnosis of lymphangioma. Serial plain radiography and CT scan were performed at postoperative follow-up.

RESULTS

Following up assessments showed that the chylothorax resolved. Also, the pain significantly relieved.

CONCLUSION

To the authors' knowledge, this is a unique reported case of lymphangioma affecting lumbar vertebral body presenting as chylothorax. Further observation is recommended because of the possibility of local recurrence.