ABSTRACT
Inflamed ear canals contain increased amounts of moisture, aberrant cerumen, mucous, increased numbers of microorgan isms, and increased concentrations of microbial toxins. Foreign bodies, neoplasms, or ectoparasites may be present. There may be inflammatory cells in the lumen, an inflammatory reaction within the epithelium, and erosions, or even ulceration, of the epithelium. The animal may well be showing signs of pain. The tympanum may be ruptured.
