Otology: Acute vs Chronic Otitis

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Questions and Answers

What is the critical factor that differentiates chronic otitis from acute otitis in veterinary medicine?

The type of infectious agent involved, with bacterial infections indicating chronicity.
The presence of a foreign body in the ear canal.
The severity of inflammation, with more severe cases classified as chronic.
The duration of the episode, with chronicity indicated by episodes persisting longer than four weeks. (correct)

In the context of veterinary dermatology, what distinguishes a recurrent otitis externa from a chronic one?

Recurrent otitis shows complete resolution between episodes, while chronic otitis does not. (correct)
Recurrent otitis is characterized by continuous inflammation, whereas chronic otitis presents discrete episodes
Recurrent otitis involves different pathogens with each episode.
Chronic otitis always requires systemic treatment, whereas recurrent otitis only needs topical treatment.

Why is it essential to perform a complete dermatological examination when diagnosing otitis externa in animals?

To measure the ear canal temperature, which is crucial for distinguishing between bacterial and fungal infections.
To identify the specific type of ear mites causing the infection, which are not visible without dermatological tools.
To quantify the amount of cerumen production, which directly correlates with the severity of the infection.
To evaluate the overall skin health and detect concurrent dermatological conditions that may contribute to or result from the otitis. (correct)

When conducting otoscopic examinations in veterinary practice, why should the less affected ear be examined first?

To gather anatomical reference points from a less distorted environment before assessing the affected ear. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What clinical finding would most strongly suggest that an otitis externa case has progressed to otitis media?

Satellite adenopathy and neurological signs. (D) Signup and view all the answers

How does biofilm presence complicate the treatment of otitis externa?

By physically preventing the penetration of topical medications and antimicrobials to the site of infection (D) Signup and view all the answers

When would it be MOST justifiable to avoid cleaning the ear canal before an otoscopic examination?

When there is suspicion of a ruptured tympanic membrane, where cleaning could introduce further damage or infection into the middle ear. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Why is cytology considered an essential diagnostic tool in managing otitis externa?

It aids in identifying the specific microorganisms involved (bacteria, yeast) and helps determine appropriate therapy. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary rationale for using topical rather than systemic antibiotics in treating otitis externa?

Topical administration achieves higher local drug concentrations and minimizes systemic side effects. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What key element in the history is MOST suggestive of an underlying cause of recurrent otitis externa?

A history of atopy or food allergy. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What therapeutic approach is most appropriate if a veterinary patient presents with otitis externa and cytology reveals a mixed infection of bacteria and yeast?

A combined therapy with both antibacterial and antifungal agents. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to re-evaluate and perform follow-up cytology after initiating treatment?

To confirm the complete resolution of the infection and ensure antibiotic resistance has not developed. (B) Signup and view all the answers

When managing otitis externa, what aspect needs to be considered when choosing a topical treatment?

The anti-inflammatory potency of the formulation for cases with ulcerated ear canals. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the MOST crucial factor in preventing the emergence of antimicrobial resistance when treating otitis externa?

Selecting antibiotics based on culture and sensitivity testing and using appropriate doses for the correct duration. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What should be considered when deciding how long a topical treatment for otitis externa should be applied?

The severity of clinical signs along with resolution of cytological abnormalities. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of ear cleaning?

To remove debris, such as cerumen and exudate, which can inhibit medication effectiveness, therefore improving treatment outcome. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which cleaning-agent characteristic or feature is MOST important when selecting an ear cleaner for an animal with a suspected ruptured tympanic membrane?

It is non-ototoxic (safe for the middle ear). (B) Signup and view all the answers

What feature is a key component of long-term management with a predisposition to chronic or recurrent otitis externa?

Regular follow-up appointments to monitor for early signs of recurrence. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal in managing otitis externa?

To make the environment in the ear canal unfavorable to the multiplication of bacteria. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the MOST accurate method for determining the best empirical choice of topical antimicrobial when treating canine otitis externa?

A cytology of the ear exudate to identify microorganisms. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

What is Otitis Externa?

Inflammation of the ear canal; can be acute, chronic, or recurring.

What characterized acute otitis externa?

Acute condition lasting less than 2 months or more than one episode a year.