Octreotide in malignant chylothorax: a case report. Issue 1 (7th December 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gupta, Ajay; Singh, Taranjit
• Is Part Of: BMJ supportive & palliative care. Volume 6:Issue 1(2016)
• Page Start: 122
• Page End: 124
• Publication Date: 2015-12-07
• Subjects: Drug administration -- Clinical decisions -- Hospital care -- Supportive care; Palliative treatment -- Periodicals; Terminal care -- Periodicals; 616.029
• DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2015-000933
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2045-435X

Abstract

Abstract : The treatment of malignancy-associated chylous pleural effusion and ascites, especially in the palliative setting, represents a major therapeutic challenge. Our patient, a case of metastatic lung cancer, was suffering from high-output, non-resolving, malignancy-related chylothorax. We found that subcutaneous octreotide in combination with fasting and total parenteral nutrition, followed later by institution of low-fat diet, resulted in its resolution. We suggest that it is a reasonable approach associated with minimal morbidity in what is otherwise a challenging clinical condition.