| Etiology |
A rare cause of transudative pleural effusion occurring as an aftermath of ureteric obstruction or reno-ureteric trauma. |
| Incidence |
Rare. Mostly described in literature as isolated case reports. |
| Gender ratio |
No gender predilection described. |
| Age predilection |
Varies with the underlying cause. Can occur in childhood when posterior urethral valves or the VURD syndrome are present. Most others are linked to the age of presentation of the primary condition |
| Risk Factors |
Renal trauma, ureteric obstruction, stone disease or as a complication of procedures on the urinary tract. |
| Treatment |
Prompt recognition of urinothorax and early reestablishment of appropriate urinary diversion or distal drainage are important principles of management. The urine accumulation in the chest requires drainage. Ureteral obstruction may be treated with a ureteral stent or percutaneous nephrostomy.
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| Prognosis |
Resolves if recognised early before pulmonary complications ensue, if the chest is promptly drained and if suitable urinary drainage or distal drainage established. The overall prognosis depends on the underlying cause as well.
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| Findings on imaging |
CT or Ultrasound: Hydroureteronephrosis, evidence of compressing lymphnodes or of soft tissue masses. X-Ray, Ultrasound or CT demonstrate fluid in the thorax. Contrast CT and Tc 99m renal scintigraphy to demonstrate the reno-pleural fistula. Non contrast CT may demonstrate the fistula as this case shows
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