Congenital chylothorax is a rare condition in which a baby is born with an accumulation of lymphatic fluid in the chest cavity. This fluid is called chyle and is composed of a mixture of lymphatic fluid and fat. The accumulation of chyle can cause breathing difficulties and other complications. Treatment typically involves draining the fluid and providing nutritional support.

The main symptom of congenital chylothorax is a buildup of fluid in the chest cavity, which can cause difficulty breathing, chest pain, and a feeling of fullness in the chest. Other symptoms may include coughing, wheezing, and a bluish tint to the skin due to lack of oxygen. In some cases, the fluid buildup can cause the lungs to collapse, leading to further breathing difficulties.

The exact cause of congenital chylothorax is unknown. Possible causes include:
* Congenital malformations of the lymphatic system
* Abnormal development of the pleura (the thin membrane that lines the chest cavity)
* Injury to the thoracic duct (the main lymphatic vessel)
* Infection
* Genetic disorders
* Trauma
* Tumors

1. Thoracic duct ligation: This procedure involves surgically tying off the thoracic duct, which is the main vessel that carries lymphatic fluid from the abdomen to the chest.

2. Pleurodesis: This procedure involves injecting a substance into the pleural space to cause scarring and adhesion of the two layers of the pleura, which helps to prevent the accumulation of fluid.

3. Thoracic duct embolization: This procedure involves blocking the thoracic duct with a small device, such as a coil or plug, to prevent the flow of lymphatic fluid into the chest.

4. Thoracic duct stenting: This procedure involves placing a stent, or small tube, in the thoracic duct to keep it open and allow the flow of lymphatic fluid.

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The risk factors for Congenital chylothorax include:

1. Premature birth
2. Congenital heart defects
3. Genetic syndromes such as Turner Syndrome, Noonan Syndrome, and Trisomy 21
4. Congenital diaphragmatic hernia
5. Congenital lung malformations
6. Congenital infections such as cytomegalovirus, toxoplasmosis, and rubella
7. Trauma to the chest during delivery
8. Maternal diabetes or thyroid disease

There is no cure for congenital chylothorax, but there are treatments available to help manage the condition. Treatment options may include medications to reduce the amount of fluid in the chest cavity, surgery to close the leak in the lymphatic system, or a combination of both. In some cases, a diet low in fat may be recommended to reduce the amount of chyle produced.