Spontaneous chylothorax in the neonate

Chylothorax is a rare cause of respiratory distress in the newborn and is the most frequent type of neonatal pleural effusion. We report 3 cases of spontaneous chylothorax in neonates, 2 boys and 1 girl, all of whom suffered from respiratory distress and required intensive care, including repeated thoracocentesis and mechanical ventilation. Anticipation and prompt recognition of this neonatal emergency and appropriate therapy are essential to ensure its generally favorable prognosis.