Diseases of the Ear
CHIEF AMONG CONDITIONS affecting the ears which claim our attention are the various types of inflammation known as Otitis
Externa, Media, and Interna. In the dog the first of these is by far the most important, although extension to the middle
and inner ear structures can occur from affections of the external areas or auditory canal. The various conditions are com-
monly referred to as Ear Canker.
1. OTITIS EXTERNA (see also chapter on Skin)
This extremely common condition may range from a simple reddening and mild inflammation of the outer canal to
thickening of the epithelial tissue inside the ear flap. It is referred to as acute or chronic. The acute form may show simply
undue warmth or be attended by ulceration and suppuration or again simply by an increase in wax content. The chronic
condition leads to thickening of the outer ear flap which also may show ulceration
ETIOLOGY. The various factors implicated in the development of Otitis Externa include narrowness of the ear canal, the
presence of undue quantities of hair (as in the Poodle) and long drooping ears (as in the Spaniel). The presence of fluid in
the canal can also contribute to it. Frequently the cause is systemic and in this case is often associated with the develop-
ment of ezcematous lesions elsewhere.
CLINICAL SIGNS. The early stages produce an increase in wax which becomes soft and semi-fluid and arises as a direct
result of inflammatory changes. As the condition develops or if treatment is neglected, secondary infection gains entrance
to the auditory canal and gives rise to suppuration with the production of a purulent exudate.
Chronic Otitis Externa, besides giving rise to proliferative changes which can be attended by ulceration, frequently also
gives rise to a dermatitis of the adjacent tissues including the outer ear flap. The first obvious sign is shaking of the head
or pawing at the affected ear. The head is held on the side (towards the affected ear) giving the head a tilted appearance.
Examination reveals an increase in wax with redness and possibly ulceration of the lining of the canal. More severe forms
show purulent exudate of an evil-smelling nature together with thickening of the epithelium. Scratching of the ear results
in many cases in a dermatitis of the adjoining ear flap.
TREATMENT. There are many excellent remedies available for the various stages which may arise:
1. ACONITUM 30c. Should be given in the very early stages when the ear shows an initial redness and warmth. It will help
allay distress.
2 BELLADONNA 30c. An excellent remedy also in the early stage when the ear is hot, throbbing and swollen.
3. ARSEN. ALB. 6c. This is a useful remedy when there is a thin serous discharge from the ear. The animal shows a desire
for warmth and is usually restless. Symptoms tend to be exacerbated towards midnight.
4. RHUS TOX. 6c. The ear flap is hot and shows slight vesicular or papular involvement. The left ear is more affected than
the right.
5. TELLURIUM 30c. This is an excellent general remedy for ear conditions. The ear flap may show thickening and eczema-
tous lesions which can extend to the outer covering.
6. HEPAR SULPH. 30c. Pain is evident from the animal showing resentment at being touched. The inflammation is usually
deep-seated and excess semi-liquid wax is present.
7. MERC. SOL. 30c. A useful remedy when early changes have given way to the suppurative stage, with the production of a
greenish discharge. A heavy musty smell is present.
8. MERC. CORR. 30c. Indicated in the more severe suppurative form when blood may be present in the purulent exudate.
There are frequently systemic eczematous lesions present with possibly mucous diarrhoea at night.
may be needed in the dirty-coated, chilly animal which exhibits excessive scratching pro-
9. PSORINUM 30c. This nosod
ducing a musty smell. The coat is usually harsh and dry.
FOOTNOTE. The ear should be bathed with a dilute solution (1/10) of Hypercal (Hypericum and Calendula tincture) or Hydrogen Peroxide.