When Rough Play Leads to an Infected Ear Wound
A traumatic injury to the pinna, or external ear flap, can initially appear minor but may progress when bacteria enter through damaged skin. In this case, an ear wound sustained during a household scuffle developed into a localized auricular abscess—a pocket of infected fluid and purulent material within the traumatized tissues.
As the infection progressed, pressure accumulated inside the affected area until the abscess ruptured, resulting in an open, bleeding, and contaminated wound. Veterinary management focused on evaluating the extent of tissue damage, controlling the infection, cleaning the wound, and supporting proper drainage and healing.
Diagnostic evaluation also identified concurrent intestinal parasitism involving whipworms and hookworms. Hookworms may contribute to intestinal blood loss and anemia, while whipworms can cause colonic inflammation and gastrointestinal disease. These concurrent infections were clinically relevant because the patient’s overall health and nutritional status can influence tissue repair and recovery.
Following treatment and continued wound care, the patient remained stable, with visible improvement of the ear flap and ongoing tissue healing.
This case demonstrates why bite wounds, scratches, and swelling after rough play or fighting should not be dismissed. Small punctures can close at the surface while infection develops underneath. Early veterinary assessment may prevent abscess formation, extensive tissue injury, and prolonged recovery.
Clinical Presentation: Ruptured, infected wound involving the external ear flap
Primary Diagnosis: Traumatic auricular abscess
Concurrent Finding: Intestinal parasitism involving whipworms and hookworms
Management Focus: Wound decontamination, infection control, drainage, and supportive care
Outcome: Patient stable with satisfactory healing in progress
Case handled by Dr. Enrique A. Guioguio.
Dr. Enrique A. Guioguio
Attending Veterinarian
