Idiopathic chylothorax in dogs and cats: nonsurgical and surgical management.

Idiopathic chylothorax is a debilitating disease that can lead to respiratory and metabolic compromise and fibrosing pleuritis. Several treatment options are available once a diagnosis has been made. Although large-scale studies on the outcome of treatment for idiopathic chylothorax are lacking, long-term resolution of clinical signs is possible. Pathophysiology, diagnosis, and thoracic duct imaging are discussed in a companion article. This article provides an overview of nonsurgical and surgical management techniques for idiopathic chylothorax in dogs and cats.