Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Material found in middle ear of dogs during MRI for neurological signs
By Owen, M C et al.·Published in Veterinary radiology & ultrasound : the official journal of the American College of Veterinary Radiology and the International Veterinary Radiology Association·2004·Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, United Kingdom·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Material in the middle ear of dogs having magnetic resonance imaging for investigation of neurologic signs.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of dogs undergoing MRI for neurological issues showed signs of material in their middle ear, with 32 out of 466 scans affected. Breeds like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Cocker Spaniels, Bulldogs, and Boxers were more commonly found with this issue. Some dogs had confirmed ear infections (otitis media), while others had unrelated neurological problems. The findings suggest that even if a dog shows no symptoms of an ear infection, there could still be fluid or other material present that might not be causing immediate issues. It's important for pet owners to discuss MRI results with their veterinarian to understand any potential implications for their dog's health.
People also search for: dog MRI ear infection · Cavalier King Charles spaniel ear problems · Bulldog neurological signs · Boxer ear fluid MRI · Cocker spaniel middle ear issues
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and potential significance of finding material in the middle ear of dogs having magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Of 466 MR studies reviewed, an increased signal was identified in the tympanic bulla in 32 (7%) dogs. Cavalier King Charles spaniels, Cocker spaniels, Bulldogs, and Boxers were over-represented compared to the population of dogs having MR imaging. Five (16%) dogs had definite otitis media and one (3%) had a meningioma invading the middle ear. Of the remaining dogs, 13 (41%) had possible otitis media and 13 (41%) had neurologic conditions apparently unrelated to otitis media. The most common appearance of material in the middle ear was isointense in T1-weighted images and hyperintense in T2-weighted images. There was no apparent correlation between the signal characteristics of the material and the diagnosis. Enhanced signal after gadolinium administration was observed affecting the lining of the bulla in dogs with otitis media and in dogs with unrelated neurologic conditions. In dogs without clinical signs of otitis media, finding an increased signal in the middle ear during MR imaging may reflect subclinical otitis media or fluid accumulation unrelated to inflammation. Brachycephalic dogs may be predisposed to this condition.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15072148/