Cold plasma treatment for dogs with acute ear infections safety

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) offers a novel, nonpharmacological approach with potent antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties without harming healthy tissue. In&#xa0;vitro studies have demonstrated its antimicrobial efficacy against key pathogens implicated in canine otitis externa (OE), a condition prone to chronicity if poorly managed. OBJECTIVES: This study evaluated CAP's therapeutic efficacy and safety in treating canine acute OE. ANIMALS: Twenty-two dogs with bilateral acute OE. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Dogs were divided into two equal groups with different bilateral treatment protocols. In Group 1, one ear was treated twice daily with topical antibiotic/antifungal/corticosteroid for 10&#x2009;days (STD), while the opposite ear was treated with CAP on Day (D)0 and D5 (CAP). In Group 2, one ear received the same topical drug protocol (STD), while CAP was applied to the opposite ear on D0, D3, D6 and D9. 0-3 otitis index score (OTIS-3) and cytological score were assessed on D0, D5, D10 and D15. Treatment response was assessed by the investigator and owners on D5, D10 and D15. RESULTS: Significant reductions in OTIS-3 and cytological score were observed over time in both CAP groups, similar to STD groups (p&#x2009;<&#x2009;0.01). Treatment response in CAP groups was rated good-to-excellent by nearly all investigators and owners. CAP demonstrated high tolerability, with no adverse effects. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: CAP may represent a promising adjunctive therapy in the management of acute OE.