Surgical treatment of chylothorax caused by lymphangioleiomyomatosis.

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a rare progressive disease caused by infiltration of smooth muscle-like cells in lymph vessels as well as the lung. We report a case of pulmonary LAM in a 22-year-old female with shortness of breath, recurrent pneumothorax and chylous pleural effusions. Multiple ligation of thoracic in lower part of thoracic duct was performed and biopsy of thoracic duct confirmed the diagnosis of LAM. The operation was successful and the patient was discharged. Although the thoracic duct involvement is extensive, multiple ligation in lower part of thoracic duct may be a good choice.