Case Study Presented by Dr. Melissa Mroziak, DVM
Owner, Mobile PAWS, PLLC
Patient
Sterling, 10 year-old Male, Neutered, Domestic Short Hair. Sterling was a rescued DSH who presented with recent weight loss, discomfort and left ocular (not otic!) discharge. He had a recurring history of otitis externa, and had been on amlodipine for hypertension.
PE findings included an active otitis externa (AS). Bloodwork (CBC/Chem/T4) and U/A were unremarkable. Staphylococcus haemolytica was cultured from the otic discharge. Oral and topical antibiotics were given.
Over the following week, sneezing and multiple neurological signs (disorientation, anisocoria, ptosis and absent menace (OS), and a subtle head tilt to the left) developed. Some improvement was noted with continued oral antibiotics.
Radiographs were performed. Increased soft tissue density was noted inside the left bulla with some possible bony changes in the surrounding bone.
Imaging
CT imaging was performed to determine if surgical intervention was an option - 2 post contrast CT Views are provided:
Blue arrows: Aggressive bony lesion involving the left tympanic bulla and skull. Soft tissue material is visible in the middle/external ear canals.
Red arrows: Regional contrast enhancement in the brain/meninges suggesting local encephalitis/meningitis.
Outcome:
Due to the aggressive and proliferative lesion, surgical intervention was not an option. Although he exhibited some circling/posturing difficulties, Sterling did relatively well until the last 1-2 days of his life when he experienced a seizure and was unable to truly recover. Humane euthanasia was elected.
About Mobiile Paws
Mobile PAWS, PLLC works directly with veterinary clinics and clients on an as needed basis to provide a local advanced imaging opportunity. Advanced imaging studies are not appropriate for every case, but they can be a wonderful supplemental diagnostic tool to access and visualize areas of the body which have otherwise been difficult to evaluate. Your veterinarian can guide you when such advanced studies are indicated. As a plus, pet insurances have evolved over time and, for the most part, are also likely to cover a portion procedural costs associated with these advanced studies.
Visit Mobile PAWS website: http://www.mobile-paws.com/