The COVID-19 Infection Complicated with Chylopericardium in a Six-Month-Old Boy After Glenn Shunt Surgery; A Rare Phenomenon in the Pediatric

Abstract

Introduction: Chylopericardium is known as a rare entity in pediatrics and is most commonly observed following trauma, such as cardiac surgery. Herein, we report the successful management of a pediatric patient with a COVID-19 infection complicated by chylopericardium after undergoing Glenn shunt surgery. Case Presentation: A six-month-old boy was referred to the emergency department with respiratory distress that had worsened over the past three days. His medical history revealed Glenn shunt surgery performed two months prior to admission. Due to a massive pericardial effusion with features of early cardiac tamponade, emergent needle pericardiocentesis was performed. In light of the severe respiratory distress at the time of admission, a viral panel was conducted, which confirmed a COVID-19 infection. After six days of successful surgical and medical interventions, the patient was transferred to the pediatric ward and was later discharged from the hospital in favorable condition. Conclusions: This case highlights the indispensable role of early recognition and aggressive management of chylopericardium following congenital cardiac surgery. Improved therapeutic strategies emphasize the importance of increased clinical vigilance to avoid potentially fatal outcomes