HEMATOMA 489 



Symptoms.— The condition is easily diagnosed as the ulcera- 

 tion is observed on or near the edge of the ear-flap. The 

 constant shaking and holding the head to one side are the 

 most pronounced symptoms. On examination the part is 

 usually found edematous, hot, painful and more or less hemor- 

 rhage present. Dried blood will be found on the margins of 

 the ear-flap. Should the Assuring be deep it may be infected 

 with pus. 



Prognosis. — Should not be made very favorable as there is 

 usually some loss in the ear-flap, which in some animals 

 would be serious by disfiguring. Further, the condition is 

 often resistant to treatment. The prognosis is less favorable 

 in old animals. 



Treatment.— The part should be first washed with an alka- 

 line soap, to remove all dried crusts and other accumula- 

 tions. Apply silver nitrate solution (2 per cent.) to stimulate 

 granulation. Follow by an antiseptic dusting powder (iodo- 

 form; xeroform). One of the essential factors is to protect 

 the ears from further injury and irritation. This is best done 

 by bandaging the ears over the top of the head and using a 

 head cap. Frequent dressing with the above materials is 

 advisable. If the condition is due to insect bites the animal 

 should be protected. In hunting dogs the ears should also be 

 protected from further injury by light head cap or bandage. 



HEMATOMA. 



Hematomas are frequently found in dogs with long pendent 

 ears. Other animals are seldom affected. 



Etiology.— This condition is brought about through trau- 

 matism. Very often it occurs secondary to otitis or ulcera- 

 tion of the concha. The hematoma results from a rupture 

 of the capillaries and an extravasation of blood or serum 

 between the skin and conchal cartilage. 



Symptoms.— As a rule hematoma develops suddenly. The 

 animal holds the head sideways, the affected ear down and 

 frequently shakes its head. The ear-flap is sensitive to the 

 touch, and a distinct bulging of the skin on the upper or 

 lower surface is noted; both surfaces may be involved. The 



