Pulmonary lymphatic perfusion syndrome (PLPS) is a rare disease in which there is abnormal lymphatic drainage to the lungs. This condition can cause symptoms such as chyloptysis and chylous effusions. The case describes a 54-year-old man with persistent cough, milky sputum and pericardial effusion. After a misdiagnosis and ineffective treatment of the infection, a diagnosis of PLPS was made. The patient underwent percutaneous embolization of the thoracic duct. After the procedure, there was a complete disappearance of symptoms and imaging findings. The case demonstrates that PLPS should be considered in patients with unexplained chylous effusions. Lymphatic interventional embolization can be an effective treatment option.