ACCREDITED CPD - DERMATOLOGY
membrane visualisation. In some cases, where there
is severe inflammation, swelling and pain it may be appropriate to treat with glucocorticoid anti-inflammatories for a few days prior to performing and otoscopic
examination, even if a GA will be given. This allows the
swelling to decrease facilitating visulasation of structures within the ear canal The epidermis is also less
friable and bleeds and oozes less serum.
Figure 3. Otodectes cynotis on low power magnification
Perpetuating factors
Bacteria, yeasts, otitis media, swimming, sensitivity to
ceruminolytics, and progressive pathological changes
such as narrowing of the ear canal due to chronic
changes in the epidermis.
Recognition of the predisposing,
primary and perpetuating causes
allows the formulation of a regime for
the management of chronic otitis
externa, tailored to the individual pet.
Management
The first step in the management of chronic otitis is
to determine the severity of pain. This can be done by
gentle palpation or petting of the animal. If the ear is
painful or the degree of discomfort is high, the animal
should be sedated before performing any further diagnostic testing. The second step is gentle palpation
to determine the presence of swelling, pruritus, fibrosis, or calcification since these findings will determine
whether imaging is necessary.
The outside of the ear should be examined, noting
erythema, oedema,