Ear Mites (Otodectes cynotis) Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering the clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and pearls for ear mite (Otodectes cynotis) infections.

Otodectes cynotis

The etiology (causative agent) of ear mite infections, commonly affecting kittens and treatable with otic and systemic miticidals.

Ear-pedal reflex

A reflex present in ear mite cases where the patient scratches with their pelvic limb when the ear is rubbed.

Ear mite clinical signs

Classic presentation including

head shaking

pruritus

erythematous ears

dark brown debris in ear canals

papules on the rump, tail, and neck.

Cytology of ear swab in mineral oil

A diagnostic test used to visualize Otodectes cynotis mites, eggs, and +/- secondary bacteria under a microscope.

Otoscopy (Ear Mites)

A diagnostic method used to directly visualize live mites and inflammation within the ear canal.

Ectopic mites

Mites located on areas outside the ear canal, such as the rump, tail, and neck, requiring systemic miticidal therapy.

Miticidal otic preparation

A topical ear treatment (such as milbemycin or ivermectin) applied after removing ear debris to eliminate ear mites in the canal.

Systemic miticidal

A systemic treatment (such as selamectin or ivermectin) used to eliminate ectopic ear mites.

Otodectes cynotis magnification

The magnification level (100x) used to identify Otodectes cynotis.

Ear mite prognosis

The overall prognosis is good, although the condition may recur or become chronic.