Otitis Externa

Chapter 59 Otitis Externa



The external ear canal consists of skin overlying cartilage, which provides the structural support to keep the canal open. The auricular cartilage is the framework for the pinnae and vertical aspect of the ear canal, and the annular cartilage supports the horizontal component of the external ear canal. The cartilage is covered by skin, which contains sebaceous sweat glands, apocrine (ceruminous) glands, and hair follicles. Otitis externa is defined as inflammation of the skin and adnexal structures of the ear canal. This condition is one of the most common and frustrating problems encountered in small animal practice.




The cause of otitis externa in a patient is usually multifactorial especially when chronic and requires a systematic diagnostic and therapeutic plan for resolution and to prevent recurrence.



ETIOLOGY AND PATHOGENESIS






CLINICAL SIGNS






DIAGNOSIS


Use diagnostic procedures to identify primary factors (initiating factors), predisposing factors, and perpetuating factors. All etiologic factors must be considered for successful long-term management of the patient.





Otoscopic Examination












Aug 27, 2016 | Posted by in SMALL ANIMAL | Comments Off on Otitis Externa

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