Fibroepithelial Polyps of the Ear Canal in Dogs: A Retrospective Analysis of 17 Cases

Fibroepithelial polyps (FEPs) are well-characterised benign hyperplastic lesions of the skin and mucous membranes. Little is known about their localisation in the ear canal of dogs.

To provide clinical, endoscopic, computed tomography (CT) and histological descriptions of aural (a)FEPs in 14 dogs.

Fourteen client-owned dogs diagnosed with aFEPs between 2018 and 2025.

Retrospective analysis of the electronic medical records of dogs diagnosed with aFEPs based on compatible histopathological findings.

Seventeen aFEPs were described in 14 dogs. All dogs were of brachycephalic breeds, and French bulldogs were the most common breed. Most dogs had a history of chronic-recurrent otitis externa (n = 12) and a diagnosis of atopic dermatitis (n = 10). Ear cytological results showed neutrophilic inflammation with bacteria in 14 of 17 cases. CT scan detected 15 of 17 aFEPs. In all cases, video-otoscopy revealed the presence of a pedunculated neoformation of variable size. All lesions were removed during the endoscopic procedure with a polypectomy snare or grasping forceps. Histologically, all masses were characterised by a broad fibrous core with a narrow stalk covered by either keratinised or keratinised and ciliated epithelium. Thirteen polyps contained broad trabeculae of bone. In two dogs, a second endoscopic procedure was needed to completely remove residual polyp fragments. During the follow-up period (1-80 months), 13 of the 14 dogs experienced no relapses.

In dogs, aFEPs present distinctive histopathological characteristics and should be differentiated from other aural masses. Identification and removal of aFEPs might be critical for the resolution of chronic-recurrent otitis in dogs.