Unusual complications of central venous catheterization in thrombocytopenic patient.

An unusual complication from subclavian venous catheterization is reported. A 63 year old white female with thrombocytopenia following chemotherapy for erythroleukemia developed mediastinal haematoma after inserting a left subclavian central catheter. Subsequent bilateral pleural effusion and right sided pneumothorax supervened and led to respiratory distress requiring multiple therapeutic thoracenteses.