What Is Aural Hematoma in Dogs?

Introduction

One sunny afternoon, Lisa was playing fetch with her energetic Border Collie, Luna, in the backyard when she noticed something unusual about her canine companion’s ear. Luna’s earflap appeared swollen and tender, causing her obvious discomfort. Concerned, Lisa immediately scheduled a visit to her trusted veterinarian. After a careful examination, the vet diagnosed Luna with an aural hematoma, a condition Lisa had never heard of before.

An aural hematoma in dogs, also known as an ear hematoma, manifests when blood gathers within the ear flap, specifically between the skin and cartilage. This usually results in a noticeable and occasionally painful swollen lump. Canine aural hematomas are fairly common, with breeds like Bull Terrier, Saint Bernard, and French Bulldog showing a higher propensity. The primary cause tends to be trauma to the ear, often a consequence of intense shaking or scratching instigated by an ear infection, mites, or allergies.

That being said, aural hematomas can spontaneously arise without an identifiable cause. While it can occur in any breed, those possessing large, floppy ears are often more susceptible. Suppose an aural hematoma is ignored and not treated promptly. In that case, it can result in a permanent ear deformity, often termed a “cauliflower ear,” due to scar tissue formation. Hence, immediate veterinary intervention is essential to drain the hematoma and address root conditions, thereby averting a recurrence.

What Causes Ear Hematomas in Dogs?

Hematomas in dogs, particularly within the ear flap or pinna, are rather frequent. For instance, one study discovered that 80 percent of dogs enduring secondary ear infections had pendulous, long floppy ears. In addition, the emergence of an aural hematoma is often tied to trauma to the ear, typically self-inflicted due to vigorous head shaking or scratching at the ear, a reaction generally spurred by discomfort.

The primary causes of this discomfort can range from ear infections and mites to foreign objects lodged in the external ear canal or skin allergies prompting itchiness. Moreover, the ear cartilage may become damaged, further contributing to the discomfort. While these are prevalent causes, certain dogs may develop aural hematomas without any discernible source, suggesting possible spontaneous rupturing of the small blood vessels within the ear flap.

Furthermore, dogs boasting large, floppy ears, such as Cocker Spaniels or Basset Hounds, prone to ear infections, are more susceptible to this condition owing to the heightened potential for trauma when their ears swing or hit against objects. In addition, the blood may cause the ear flap to droop, affecting the whole ear, not just one ear. Occasionally, specific medical conditions leading to blood clotting disorders might result in aural hematomas, causing the small blood vessels to break and form a hematoma. Identifying and treating these conditions is crucial to avoid a recurrence and prevent ear deformity.

Symptoms of Canine Aural Hematomas

Symptoms of an ear hematoma in your dog may include

• An ear flap’s swollen or puffy appearance suggests a fluid-filled swelling that may fluctuate in size
• Redness or inflammation of the affected area, including the ear cartilage and skin, is another telltale sign of this ear problem.
• Your pet may exhibit pain or discomfort when touching or manipulating the ear, often prompting head shaking or tilting to one side.
• Scratching or rubbing of the affected ear may also be observed.

In more severe cases, signs of an ear hematoma may include the ear becoming crinkled or wrinkled due to scarring. Aural hematomas can permanently alter your pet’s earflap shape and thickness if left untreated. This swelling may also result in long-term nerve damage owing to decreased blood supply. In addition, the risk of infection is heightened as pus accumulates in the flap. Therefore, if you suspect your dog has an ear hematoma, it’s imperative to seek immediate treatment.

Diagnosing Aural Hematomas in Your Dog

Diagnosing aural hematomas in dogs generally involves a multifaceted approach, including a detailed physical examination, a review of the dog’s medical history, and a set of specific diagnostic tests. Here’s a rundown of the common diagnostic procedures that veterinarians use:

Physical Examination

Physical examination plays a pivotal role in diagnosing aural hematoma. First, vets carefully inspect the dog’s ear, looking for signs such as swelling, redness, and an enlarged ear flap indicative of hematoma formation. Next, they palpate the affected area, assessing the hematoma’s size, shape, and firmness. The dog’s reaction to touch and manipulation of the affected ear provides insight into any discomfort or pain, and this information, combined with other clinical findings, bolsters the diagnosis of aural hematoma. Yet, further diagnostic tests may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and identify what caused the hematoma in the first place.

Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA)

Veterinarians commonly use Fine Needle Aspiration (FNA) as a diagnostic procedure to diagnose aural hematomas. During FNA, a small-gauge needle is inserted into the swollen region of the ear flap to extract a sample of fluid or blood. This sample is then microscopically examined to see if it contains blood cells or other components suggestive of a hematoma. FNA serves to confirm the presence of aural hematoma, assess its severity, and eliminate other potential conditions that may present with similar symptoms. It also sheds light on the underlying cause of the hematoma, such as an infection or trauma.

Additional Diagnostic Tests

The vet will aim to exclude other possible causes of ear swelling and discomfort, like infections, foreign objects, or tumors. This typically involves additional tests such as:

• Ear Cytology – This test involves taking a sample from the ear canal and examining it under a microscope. It helps identify inflammatory cells, bacteria, yeast, or other organisms contributing to the hematoma’s development.
• Bacterial or Fungal Cultures – These involve taking a sample from the affected ear and cultivating it in a lab. If present, this helps identify the specific microorganism causing an infection and informs appropriate treatment decisions.
• Imaging Studies – X-rays or ultrasounds might examine the ear’s internal structures and identify any underlying causes or complications linked with the aural hematoma. This information allows vets to diagnose more accurately and create a targeted treatment plan.

The specific approach to diagnosing aural hematomas can also depend on individual cases and the vet’s discretion. Nonetheless, prompt diagnosis is key to determining the hematoma’s cause and guiding the best course of treatment.

Treatment for Ear Hematomas

The strategy for treating an ear hematoma in dogs hinges on the severity and root causes of the condition. The following explains different treatment routes that vets might suggest:

Minor Ear Hematomas

For minor instances of ear hematoma, characterized by a small hematoma and mild underlying issues, vets may choose non-surgical treatment methods, such as:

• Rest and Monitoring: Advising the dog to rest and avoid actions that might worsen the ear hematoma, thus allowing it to heal over time naturally.
• Medication: Prescribing anti-inflammatory drugs, like steroids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation inside the ear flap.
• Compression Bandages: The application of a compression bandage or splint on the impacted ear can assist in lowering swelling and preventing the buildup of more fluid.

Severe Ear Hematomas

More aggressive treatment might be needed in the case of severe ear hematomas, where the hematoma is large, recurring, or accompanied by underlying issues needing attention. Larger hematomas often call for such steps as:

• Surgical Drainage and Closure: A vet may carry out ear hematoma surgery, which involves draining the gathered blood from the hematoma and stitching the ear’s layers together to encourage healing and prevent a recurrence. This surgery is usually the best treatment for treating an ear hematoma effectively.
• Addressing Underlying Causes: The vet will identify and address any underlying reason for the hematoma, such as ear infections or mites, to prevent further ear trauma.
• Post-Surgical Care: After dog ear hematoma surgery, the dog might require post-operative care that includes pain management, antibiotic treatment, and regular check-up visits to monitor healing and watch for complications.

Home Remedies

Despite the essential role of professional veterinary care in diagnosing and treating an ear hematoma in dogs, some home remedies can offer temporary relief or support veterinary treatment. However, it’s crucial to remember that these remedies should differ from professional veterinary care.

• Warm Compress: A warm compress on the impacted ear can assist in reducing swelling and fostering better blood circulation. Gently apply a clean, warm water-soaked cloth to the ear daily.
• Epsom Salt Soak: Dissolve Epsom salt in lukewarm water and immerse a clean cloth in the solution. Apply the cloth gently to the affected ear to alleviate inflammation.
• Herbal Remedies: Some herbs like chamomile or calendula may possess anti-inflammatory properties. Seek guidance from a holistic vet for suitable herbal remedies and correct usage instructions.
• Prevent Scratching: Stop the dog from excessively scratching or shaking its head, which can exacerbate the condition. Using an Elizabethan collar or trimming the dog’s nails can prevent further ear trauma.

Remember, dogs’ treatment choice for an ear hematoma depends on individual circumstances and the severity of the condition. So, consult a veterinarian to decide the most appropriate treatment plan for your dog’s needs.

Recovery and Prevention of Ear Hematomas in Dogs

There are several steps pet owners can undertake to assist in preventing the occurrence of aural hematomas in dogs:

1. Routine Ear Cleaning: Regularly keeping the ears free from dirt and debris can lower the chances of infections, reducing irritation and scratching. Utilize an ear cleaner approved by a veterinarian, and gently clean the ears as part of the regular grooming schedule.
2. Prevention of Trauma and Injuries: Avoiding excessive head shaking and scratching can help decrease the possibility of trauma to the ear cartilage, which may lead to an aural hematoma. Regularly trim your dog’s nails to lessen the chances of injuring the ears from scratching.
3. Managing Underlying Ear Conditions: Early treatment and management of potential ear infections or other related conditions can ward off aural hematomas. If any ear infection sa symptoms become apparent, such as unusual scratching, redness, swelling, or discharge, seek immediate veterinary attention to address the issue.
4. Regular Vet Visits: Regular check-ups with the vet can help ensure your dog’s overall well-being, including ear health. A vet can examine the ears, spot any early signs of inflammation or infection, and provide suitable preventive care suggestions.
5. Allergy Prevention: Allergies can lead to inflammation and itching in the ear, escalating the risk of aural hematomas. Recognize and manage any allergies your dog may have, be it food allergies, environmental allergies, or flea allergies, with the guidance of your veterinarian.
6. Avoidance of Rough Play and Head Trauma: Limit rough play or activities that might cause head trauma, such as over-zealous head shaking or collisions with objects. Supervise your dog during playtime to avoid accidental injuries and protect the ear.

In the days following surgery or treatment for an aural hematoma, it’s crucial to follow your vet’s advice for care and monitoring to prevent a recurrence. By adhering to these preventive steps and ensuring regular veterinary care, pet owners can help lessen the likelihood of their dogs developing an aural hematoma. In addition, the early identification and suitable treatment of underlying ear issues can also contribute to preventing the condition.

Frequently Asked Questions