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.

Keywords

end stage renal failure; glucose gradient; peritoneal dialysis; pleural effusion; pleuroperitoneal fistulae.

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