Pleuroperitoneal Fistula, an Unusual Case of Recurrent Unilateral Transudative Pleural Effusion

ABSTRACT

A 39‐year‐old woman afflicted by systemic lupus erythematous (SLE) with musculoskeletal involvement and end‐stage renal failure (ESRF) on continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) presented with recurrent left‐sided transudative pleural effusion. Guided by the ratio of pleural glucose to serum glucose > 1, and further confirmatory tests via a targeted imaging study, we were able to secure the diagnosis of a pleuroperitoneal leak. This case report highlighted the finding of this uncommon diagnosis that, if missed, would be detrimental to the patient's care.