Issues

EAR CYTOLOGY

Ear cytology is one of the most important investigative steps in all cases of otitis externa and lends itself well to input from the veterinary nurse. Stained and unstained samples are useful to assess the ear for the presence respectively of bacterial and yeast pathogens and ectoparasites. Sample collection can be easily achieved in the conscious dog and only a minimal amount of equipment is needed to take and interpret good samples.

While the color, appearance and odor of an otic discharge can give strong clues as to the presence of and type of infection, visual inspection of the ear cannot replace cytological examination. It is impossible to decide on the need for further diagnostic tests or select appropriate therapy without undertaking cytology of the ear discharge. A cytology sample can be taken, processed and interpreted by any competent veterinary nurse. The results of cytology can then help in the selection of appropriate therapy by the attending veterinary surgeon.

Cytology is also important to assess the response to therapy and decide on the end point for medication. Therapy should not be discontinued until there is no evidence of infection or an inflammatory infiltrate on cytology. It is therefore important that cytology should be used to help in the initial management of disease and also to ensure that therapy has been successful and the infection has resolved.

Assessing the ear prior to sample collection

An assessment of the dog’s ear condition prior to attempting to take a sample is important to try to gain an understanding of the severity of the otitis. While some infections such as with Malassezia spp. are highly pruritic and many dogs enjoy sample collection from their ears as it satisfies their need to scratch, in other cases for example where Gram-negative infection is present, the ear can be acutely painful. In these latter cases it is important that the dog is given pain relief, which may be combined with sedation or a general anesthetic, in order that the ear may be examined without frightening the dog.

Visual inspection of the discharge

Although the color or odor of an otic discharge should never be used as the sole means to diagnose a particular infection, it can act as a useful starting point as part of a wider investigation.

Visit your veterinarian as early recognition, diagnosis, and treatment are essential.

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