Chylous Ascites in a Case of Henoch-Schonlein Purpura - A Case Report and Literature Review

Chylous ascites is a rare form of ascites characterized by the accumulation of lymph fluid in the peritoneal cavity. Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP) is a form of vasculitis usually seen in children affecting small vessels. Gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations of HSP are coming to the forefront as a presenting symptom. The presence of a rash usually succeeds the GI manifestations, making diagnosis difficult and leading to unnecessary surgical interventions. Our case shows a 38-year-old female who presented with an acute abdomen followed by an erythematous rash noticed later on, with radiological investigations suggestive of acute appendicitis. Chylous ascites was found as an incidental finding on diagnostic laparoscopy with a healthy appendix.