[Chylous ascites].

Starting from one case of chylous ascites of their own observation, the authors attempt an etiological classification of this clinical entity, taking into account pertinent published material and the fact that in many instances chylous ascites is nothing more than a symptom. The authors then proceeds to a critical review of diagnostic and therapeutical resources; in that respect, they stress the extreme difficulties often encountered both in diagnosing the condition and in trying to correct it.