What disease is chylous blood?

Chylous blood is a condition caused by abnormalities in the lymphatic system, leading to impaired absorption of fats from lymph fluid, which in turn causes symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss.

Chylous blood is a rare disease, also known as primary lymphatic chylous blood. It refers to a milky appearance of the blood due to abnormally high levels of triglycerides in the bloodstream. Chylous blood is sometimes called "milk blood." Its occurrence is often influenced by dietary factors—for example, consuming foods high in fat, sugar, or calories may easily lead to chylous blood. However, if chylous blood is still observed after fasting for more than 12 hours, dietary causes can be ruled out, and primary hyperlipidemia should be considered. The main causes of chylous blood include congenital abnormalities or acquired disorders of the lymphatic system, such as lymphatic hypoplasia, lymphatic obstruction, or lymphatic inflammation. These abnormalities prevent normal absorption of fats in the lymph fluid, resulting in the formation of chyle, which enters the intestines and causes symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain.

In addition, diagnosis of chylous blood primarily relies on medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests. Common diagnostic methods include blood tests, stool examinations, endoscopy, and lymphangiography. Treatment options include dietary management, medication, and surgical intervention, with the specific treatment plan tailored according to the individual patient's condition and clinical presentation.