ABSTRACT
Fetal pleural eusion is very rare, with older studies reporting an incidence of 1 in 15,000 pregnancies.4 e diagnosis is made by ultrasonography, and the incidence has not increased signicantly even with more routine use ultrasonography earlier in pregnancy. Most data are retrospective and from tertiary referral centers, so it is likely that some cases are unreported including those that resolve spontaneously or where there is fetal death.5,6
A primary fetal pleural eusion is caused by leakage from lymphatics and is also called hydrothorax in the fetal period rather than chylothorax.6 e uid is lymphocyte rich but does not have any triglycerides since there are no enteral feedings. Although the presence of lymphocytes supports the diagnosis of lymphatic uid, lymphocytes could be associated with viral infections. e diagnosis of primary pleural eusion in the fetus is one of exclusion aer
● Pleural eusions in the fetus are frequently related to congenital and genetic anomalies. ● Chylothorax is the most common pleural eusion in newborns. ● Parapneumonic eusion is the most common eusion in children. ● Ultrasonography is the preferred diagnostic imaging for pleural eusions-computed tomography scans should
be avoided. ● Pleural drainage is not needed in all pediatric patients with parapneumonic eusions.
