Extensive subcutaneous emphysema secondary to axillary penetrating wound in a mule: a case report and literature review.

Generalized 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, paracentesis, and bacterial culture, yielded unremarkable hematological findings and no microbial growth. The wound was managed via local debridement, with adjunct systemic therapy, including penicillin G and flunixin meglumine. Complete resolution occurred within five days under stall rest. This case underscores that generalized subcutaneous emphysema 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 generalized subcutaneous emphysema in equids warrants further etiopathological investigation to establish species-specific prognostic criteria.