Dog with internal ear infection causing balance problems and head tilt

Abstract

ABSTRACT Otitis can be classified as external, middle, or internal, with the latter being a common cause of Peripheral Vestibular Disease (PVD). External otitis can progress to middle otitis and, subsequently, to internal otitis, potentially leading to tympanic membrane rupture and neurological symptoms such as ataxia and nystagmus. This study reports a case of chronic otitis associated with PVD in a 9-year-old, 6 kg female Poodle, initially treated for advanced periodontal disease with anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics. Two days after starting treatment, the dog developed neurological symptoms. Examinations revealed nystagmus, head tilt, auricular inflammation, cerumen accumulation, and rupture of the left tympanic membrane, confirming the diagnosis of PVD associated with internal otitis. Treatment included ear cleaning, otological medications, and systemic therapy, resulting in significant improvement in neurological symptoms and vestibular recovery within a few weeks. The dog did not return for tartarectomy. This case highlights the importance of neurological examinations in dogs with internal otitis, as vestibular complications are common and may lead to permanent sequelae if not properly treated.