Comparative analysis of different methods of treatment of atopic otitis in dogs

Tandzhu Nailov Mehmedov, Ivelina Boykova Vacheva, Krasimira Ivanova Genova

Abstract: Atopic otitis externa is an inflammation of the external ear canal caused by environmental allergen. It involves a correlation between otitis flare episodes and seasonal allergy periods. Otitis is often the first sign of an underlying allergy. Successful management involves identification and analysis of all factors (primary, secondary, predisposing and/or perpetuating). Our study was comprised of a total of 29 dogs (n = 29) of various breeds and ages. Diagnosis of atopic otitis was based on history, clinical signs, general examination, dermatological and otoscopic examination, cytology of the ear canal,
culture and sensitivity testing, MRI and food diet trial with hydrolyzed protein in order to differentiate atopic vs food induced otitis. Treatment was based on a reactive therapy followed by a proactive therapy. Long-term management was an important part of a good strategy. It involved treatment of the primary cause, monthly check-up, weekly proactive therapy, at-home cleaning of the ear canal and detailed instructions for proper care and symptom evaluation to the owners. Owner feedback was extremely valuable as early detection of symptom recurrence was crucial for the ultimate success. In this study, all but one of the patients exhibited long-term dissipation of symptoms without relapsing for a period of 6 to 8 months.

Keywords: canine atopic otitis externa (СAOE); deep ear cleansing; ear cytology; pro-active therapy; video-otoscopy

Date published: 2023-02-27