Auricular hematomas are small-to-large, fluid-filled swellings that develop on the concave surface of the pinnae in dogs, cats, and pigs. The pathogenesis for the development of the lesions is unknown, but head shaking or ear scratching due to pruritus is almost always involved. In dogs, the condition is seen with atopic dermatitis and food allergy in which the ear canals are the primary sites of allergic inflammation, pruritus, and secondary infection. In pigs, sarcoptic mange, pediculosis, and meal in the ears (from overhead feeders) have been implicated as a cause of head-shaking that has led to auricular hematomas. Bites from other pigs also may be at fault (see Necrotic Ear Syndrome in Swine). Treatment is surgical to allow drainage. After draining and flushing, several mattress sutures can be placed to eliminate the "pocket." The addition of a drain made out of a teat tube, piece of soft urinary catheter, or IV catheter increases the success rate of surgery. Drainage and glucocorticoid instillation are successful in ~50% of cases. Drainage is best obtained with a butterfly connection or an IV catheter. Glucocorticoids are instilled to fill the cavity without causing skin distention. A short course of a low anti-inflammatory dosage of oral glucocorticoids is commonly added to this treatment.
OTHER TOPICS IN THIS CHAPTER
Diseases of the Pinna
Overview of Diseases of the Pinna
Arthropod Bite Pinnal Dermatitis
Insect Bite Dermatitis
Mite Infestations
Allergy
Aural Contact Dermatitis
Pinnal Alopecia
Ear Margin Seborrhea
Sebaceous Adenitis
Auricular Hematomas
Equine Aural Plaques
Necrotic Ear Syndrome in Swine
Miscellaneous Diseases of the Pinna
