Condition5 connections · 1 source
Malassezia Otitis
Malassezia otitis is ear canal inflammation caused by overgrowth of Malassezia yeast, a normal resident of pet ears that proliferates when the ear environment changes.
Key Facts
- Malassezia is normally present in ears; overgrows when moisture and fatty secretions increase
- Primary underlying causes: allergies (atopic dermatitis, food allergies) and narrowed ear canals
- Signs: increased earwax, discharge, odor, head shaking, itching, pain, hearing loss
- Diagnosis: cytology (microscopic exam of ear swab) showing excessive yeast
- Treatment: ear cleaning and topical antifungals
- Without addressing the underlying cause, infection returns when medication stops
- Bacteria often co-occur with yeast infection
- Repeated infections can lead to deeper ear infection and long-term medication side effects
- Species: dogs primarily, also cats
Connections (5)
Related Conditions
Allergic ReactionCondition
Allergies are the most common primary cause
Aural HematomaCondition
Yeast infections cause scratching that leads to hematomas
Ear MitesCondition
Secondary yeast infection can follow mite infestation
Otitis ExternaCondition
Malassezia is a major secondary cause of ear infection
Vestibular DiseaseCondition
Deep ear infections can cause vestibular signs