Recurrent Brachiocephalic Vein Stenosis as a Cause for Persistent Left-sided Transudative Pleural Effusion in a Hemodialysis Patient

Background Effusion is common in dialysis patients. The most common causes include fluid overload due to renal failure and nonrenal causes like congestive heart failure and infection. We here report a case of left side transudative effusion due to brachiocephalic venous stenosis. Methods A 34-year-old female who had chronic kidney disease V during transplant work-up was found to be having left arm swelling and left transudative effusion. Work-up for transudative effusion did not show any cardiac cause or liver problem. Her dialysis duration was optimized from 2 times a week to 3 times a week for 4 hr and her dry weight was adjusted. Despite adequate dialysis for 1 month, effusion on the left side persisted. She had a previous venoplasty for a stenosis in brachiocephalic vein but restenosis occurred again. Results Brachiocephalic vein stenting was performed which successfully lead to resolution of left arm swelling and left effusion. She was later on successfully transplanted. Conclusions Brachiocephalic stenosis can cause ipsilateral transudative effusion. Venoplasty and stenting of the brachiocephalic vein lead to complete resolution of effusion.