Primary Secretory Otitis Media in dogs

Species: Dog
Condition: Primary Secretory Otitis Media
Organ System: Nervous/sensory

Also known as glue ear, middle ear effusion, or otitis media with effusion (OME). The condition is frequently diagnosed in Cavalier King Charles spaniels. A main feature is the formation of a highly sticky mucus plug filling a dog’s middle ear, and may cause bulging of the tympanic membrane. The cause is unknown but is speculated to be due to a dysfunction of the middle or the auditory tube. Affected dogs suffer from moderate to severe pain in the head or neck, causing them to tilt the head. Persistent ear scratching, excessive yawning, ataxia, and other nervous signs may be present. Treatment involves a myringotomy followed by flushing of the middle ear to force out the mucus plug.

Breeds exposed to Primary Secretory Otitis Media – Research Reference
American Cocker Spaniel Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
American Cocker Spaniel – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
English Springer Spaniel – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Springer Spaniel – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
English Springer Spaniel Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)
Springer Spaniel Cross – University of Sydney (LIDA Dog Disease Database)

Disease Author
Dr Merliza Cabriles, Professor of Veterinary Medicine

To learn more about Primary Secretory Otitis Media or any other condition we invite you to search this website. Even better, pick up the phone and call your vet. Your vet knows your pet better than anyone else and is a fountain of information.