Veterinary Research Forum
Vet Res Forum

Extensive Subcutaneous Emphysema Secondary to Axillary Penetrating Wound in a Mule: A Case Report and Literature Review

Articles in Press

Document Type : Clinical Report

Authors

Ghader Jalilzadeh-Amin 1
Masoud Ahmadnejad-Asl-Gavgani 2
Amin Kheirolahzadeh-Maleki 3
Mahyar Hanafi 3

1 Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran

2 Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Urmia, Urmia, Iran

3 Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Me

10.30466/vrf.2025.2068821.4881
Abstract
Extensive subcutaneous emphysema (GSE) is an uncommon clinical presentation in equids, typically associated with penetrating trauma and rarely compromising systemic health. This case report documents a 4-year-old working mule presenting with diffuse subcutaneous emphysema secondary to an axillary penetrating wound in the right forelimb. Clinical examination revealed pronounced crepitus without concurrent ataxia, dyspnea, dehydration, or gastrointestinal dysfunction. Diagnostic investigations—including ultrasonography, radiography, complete blood count (CBC), paracentesis, and bacterial culture—yielded unremarkable hematological findings and no microbial growth. The wound was managed via local debridement, with adjunct systemic therapy (Penicillin G and Flunixin Meglumine). Complete resolution occurred within five days under stall rest. This case underscores that GSE in mules may represent a benign, self-limiting condition when infectious etiologies are excluded. Conservative management, including compulsory rest and anti-inflammatory therapy, can facilitate spontaneous resolution while mitigating risks of pneumothorax or gas gangrene. The rarity of non-infectious GSE in equids warrants further etiopathological investigation to establish species-specific prognostic criteria.

Keywords

Equine
Subcutaneous Emphysema
Mule
Penetrating Trauma
Wound Management
Subjects
Veterinary Research Forum

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 31 May 2026

  • Receive Date 16 August 2025
  • Revise Date 08 October 2025
  • Accept Date 15 November 2025

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