[Fetal chylothorax].

Foetal chylothorax was diagnosed in female foetus by ultrasound scanning on account of suspected twin pregnancy at the 34th week. No other signs of hydrops foetalis were found. The chylothorax reformed rapidly following intrauterine thoracocentesis which was therefore repeated immediately before Cesarean section at the 38th week in order to facilitate the perinatal cardiopulmonary adjustment. Pulmonary maturation was found to be normal. Postnatally, marked chylous effusion in the pleural cavity continued. Conservative treatment with pleural drainage and total parenteral nutrition was attempted initially. On account of the absence of response and supervening infection, it was decided to operate after the elapse of three weeks. Pleural decortication was performed with good result.