A non-invasive alternative treatment approach for canine aural haematoma: Three case reports

Abstract

Canine aural haematoma is commonly encountered in veterinary practices, and manifests as swelling of the ear pinna. This is usually caused by self-inflicted trauma due to scratching of the ear and head shaking, secondary to otitis extern a, or immune-mediated disorders. The usual treatment for aural haematoma is surgical removal of the clot with post-operative compression. The aim of this study was to introduce an alternative treatment method for aural haematoma, which was tested in a 12-year-old male German Shepherd, 8-year-old male Dachshund and a 2-year-old pregnant Doberman Pinscher. The primary aetiology of aural haematoma in these three patients was otocariasis, ehrlichiosis and bacterial otitis extern a respectively. All three patients were treated with serratiopeptidase tablets 5 mg/animal, thrice daily for two weeks together with treatment for the primary causes. After a week, all three haematomas had reduced in size and complete regression was observed at the end of two weeks.

Serratiopeptidase is a natural proteolytic enzyme derived from Serratia E 15 which is a nonpathogenic enterobacteria. The enzyme induces degradation of fibrin and inflammatory mediators and reduces the viscosity of exudates, dissolves necrotic tissue surrounding the injured area and accelerates the healing process by promoting the absorption of decomposed products.

This study revealed that aural haematoma can be cured by simple oral treatment without adopting an invasive surgical procedure under general anaesthesia. It will also be acceptable to many pet owners as it is convenient and less traumatic to their pets and avoids cosmetic alterations such as wrinkling and thickenings of the pinna due to scar tissue formation and post-operative complications such as wound infections. As this is a non-invasive procedure, it can be used in patients having anaesthetic risk, such as geriatric and pregnant animals. However, veterinary practitioners need to be aware of the cause and the severity of the haematoma and to use appropriate treatment for aetiological agenUs to prevent recurrence of the haematoma.