Veterinary Insights on Ear Cancer in Dogs 2025 🐶🩺

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

🔍 Introduction

Ear cancer in dogs—though uncommon—requires prompt recognition and treatment. I’m Dr. Duncan Houston, BVSc, here to offer a veterinary perspective on types, symptoms, diagnostic steps, treatment options, and long-term outcomes in 2025. 🎗️👂🩺

🧬 What Is Ear Cancer in Dogs?

‘Ear cancer’ refers to malignant tumors affecting any part of the ear—pinna (ear flap), external ear canal, middle, or inner ear. While benign tumors are more common, malignant types like ceruminous gland adenocarcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma can be aggressive.

📌 Common Tumor Types & Locations

• Pinna tumors: Mast cell tumors, squamous cell carcinomas—may be visible early
• External ear canal: Ceruminous gland adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma—most prevalent malignant types
• Middle/inner ear tumors are rare but can cause neurologic signs

🚨 Symptoms & Clinical Signs

• Visible or palpable growth in or on the ear
• Head shaking, scratching, foul or bloody discharge, persistent infections
• Neurologic effects (middle/inner ear involvement): head tilt, circling, balance issues, hearing loss, nystagmus

🔬 Diagnosis Workflow

• Physical exam with otoscope or endoscope inspection
• Fine-needle aspiration or surgical biopsy for tumor typing
• CT or advanced imaging for staging and surgical planning
• Bloodwork, chest x-ray, or abdominal ultrasound to assess metastasis

🛠 Treatment Options

Surgical excision is the gold standard:

• Pinna: Partial or total pinnaectomy for flap tumors
• Ear canal: Total Ear Canal Ablation with Lateral Bulla Osteotomy (TECA-BO) for deep or invasive tumors

Post-surgical/supportive care:

• Radiation therapy is used when surgery is incomplete or when tumors are extensive
• Chemotherapy for malignant or metastatic tumors
• Pain management, antibiotics, ear cleaning (e.g., Duotic) to support healing

📈 Prognosis & Outcomes

Outcomes vary by tumor type and stage:

• Benign tumors—generally excellent prognosis following removal
• Ceruminous gland adenocarcinoma—can survive ~5 years with aggressive treatment, especially TECA; prognosis worsens with bulla invasion or metastasis
• Deep tumors or those with metastasis—poorer outlook; local control and quality of life remain key goals

📅 Aftercare & Follow-Up

• Monitor incision and ear hygiene to prevent infections
• Regular imaging for recurrence, especially in malignant cases
• Pain control and rehab for balance issues post-surgery

🛡️ Prevention & Early Detection

• Prompt evaluation of recurring ear infections or masses
• Regular veterinary ear exams, especially in breeds like Cocker Spaniels and German Shepherds
• Manage chronic ear inflammation proactively to reduce tumor risk

🔧 Tools & Services Recommendations

• Ask A Vet App: 24/7 expert advice for early detection & treatment planning 📲

✅ Final Thoughts

Ear cancer in dogs, while uncommon, warrants swift veterinary attention. Early detection, accurate diagnosis, and a combination of surgical and adjunct therapies offer the best chance at remission and quality of life. Use trusted tools like AskAVet.com and the Ask A Vet app for guidance—plus support treatment, medication tracking, and recovery planning.

Download the Ask A Vet app today to stay connected with your veterinary partner and ensure your dog's ear health and comfort throughout 2025 and beyond! ❤️👂