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Proliferative and necrotizing otitis externa in four cats.
Elizabeth A Mauldin1, Timothy A Ness, Michael H Goldschmidt
1Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6051, USA. emauldin@vet.upenn.edu
Veterinary Dermatology
|September 12, 2007
Summary
Topical tacrolimus shows promise for treating feline otitis externa, a rare ear condition. This treatment led to significant improvement in affected cats, offering a new therapeutic option.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Dermatology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Proliferative and necrotizing feline otitis externa is a rare condition with an unknown cause.
- It affects the external ear canal and pinnae, leading to significant discomfort and occlusion.
Observation:
- Four cats (three adults, one kitten) presented with coalescing plaques and exudate in the ear canals.
- Secondary bacterial and/or yeast infections were common.
- Previous treatments with otic preparations, oral antibiotics, and corticosteroids were ineffective.
Findings:
- Histopathology revealed acanthosis, hair follicle hyperplasia, neutrophilic folliculitis, follicular keratosis, and keratinocyte necrosis.
- Topical 0.1% tacrolimus treatment resulted in marked improvement in adult cats.
- Complete resolution was achieved with topical tacrolimus alone in one cat and with combined topical tacrolimus and oral prednisolone in another.
Implications:
- Topical tacrolimus represents a potential therapeutic strategy for recalcitrant feline otitis externa.
- Further research is warranted to confirm efficacy and optimal use in feline ear canal diseases.
- Understanding the underlying etiology of this condition remains crucial for comprehensive management.
