Chylothorax as a manifestation of rheumatic mitral stenosis: its postoperative management with a diet of medium-chain triglycerides.

Chylothorax occurred as a manifestation of severe congestive heart failure resulting from rheumatic mitral stenosis. Following replacement of the mitral valve, chylothorax recurred and was treated by thoracocentesis initially and then resolved during six months of therapy with a diet of medium-chain triglycerides. Ultimately, the patient resumed a regular diet with no further accumulation of pleural fluid.