Congenital Unilateral Chylothorax in a Non-immune Hydropic Newborn with Down Syndrome

Chylothorax is defined as accumulation of lymph within the pleural space. It is the most common cause of pleural effusion causing respiratory distress in the first few days of life. Congenital chylothorax and Down syndrome are independently have been found in association with non-immune hydrops fetalis. On the other hand, these entities can seen together. The treatment of congenital chylothorax generally based on cessation of enteral feeding, initiation of total parenteral nutrition and introduction of medium chain triglycerides. Surgical intervention should be encountered when medical therapy fails. We present a hydropic newborn with Down syndrome and chylothorax who was successfully treated by chest drainage and conservative treatment.