Bilateral recurrent haemorrhagic pleural effusion in asymptomatic chronic pancreatitis

In a case of bilateral recurrent haemorrhagic pleural effusion due to asymptomatic pancreatitis the diagnosis was suggested by the presence of amylase in the pleural fluid when other possible causes had been excluded. Abdominal computed tomography and laparotomy confirmed the diagnosis. No communications could be seen between the peritoneal and pleural space at laparotomy.