SUBCUTANEOUS EMPHYSEMA IN A NEONATAL DEAL

A 16-hour-old foal was examined because of subcutaneous emphysema, whi ch began developing 3 hours after a routine delivery. Physical examina tion did not reveal soft-tissue or musculoskeletal trauma, and there w ere no skin injuries to explain the subcutaneous accumulation of air. Results of CBC and serum biochemical analysis were within reference li mits, and findings on endoscopy of the pharyngeal area, trachea, and e sophagus were within normal limits other than observation of dorsal ph aryngeal compression. A pulmonary bulla, pneumomediastinum, and pneumo thorax were detected on thoracic radiography: Because of the apparent association of the subcutaneous emphysema and thoracic abnormalities, a diagnosis of primary subcutaneous emphysema was made. A tracheostomy tube was placed to facilitate ventilation and to provide an exit poin t for the trapped air. Supportive care was provided. The foal's condit ion resolved over the subsequent 8 days.