Krka UK has launched a new otitis externa management flowchart, developed in collaboration with RCVS recognised specialist in veterinary dermatology, Professor Tim Nuttall. Designed to help veterinary teams make clearer, more confident clinical decisions, the flowchart provides a structured, step-by-step approach to diagnosing and managing ear disease in dogs and cats.
Otitis externa is one of the most commonly encountered skin conditions in general practice, with a prevalence of 7.3%.1 Without a structured approach, it can quickly become a source of clinical frustration, owner dissatisfaction, and debilitating clinical signs for pets. However, when managed correctly from the outset, cases are more likely to respond to treatment, avoid complications and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Renzo Di Florio, Technical Veterinary Adviser at Krka UK, explains that the new resource guides vets in making responsible, evidence-based decisions when managing otitis externa and supports antimicrobial stewardship. He says, “It takes you through each step, from diagnosis to treatment and long-term management, including identifying cases that might benefit from referral. It can also help practices to develop an otitis externa management plan protocol that’s useful for the whole team, and that’s practical and easy to integrate into existing workflows”
Professor Nuttall highlights that a key message within the flowchart is the central role of cytology in otitis management, saying, “Cytology is essential to assess the level of inflammation and detect the presence of bacteria or Malassezia. This help clinicians make informed decisions about whether antibiotics are truly needed. In contrast, culture and sensitivity testing can be misleading when used to guide topical therapy.”
Professor Tim Nuttall, Head of Dermatology at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, is a globally recognised authority in veterinary dermatology, antimicrobial resistance and canine atopic dermatitis. With over 100 scientific publications and previous roles across BSAVA, DEFRA, RCVS and the Controlling Antimicrobial Resistance in Scotland (CARS) Steering Group, Professor Nuttall’s clinical leadership ensures the chart is grounded in the latest evidence and best practice.
The flowchart complements Krka UK’s existing range of practical, evidence-based resources, including a Podcast Series on Antimicrobial Stewardship featuring Professor Nuttall and the Veterinary Knowledge Hub Vet2Vet guides.
Download a copy of the Otitis Externa Flowchart here: Otitis Externa Treatment plan clinical guide | Krka. Explore Krka UK’s other resources here: Veterinary knowledge hub | Krka or contact KRKA UK at animalhealth.uk@krka.biz.
Krka’s range of solutions for Otitis Externa includes Otoxolan®, and Otomicol® that launched in 2024. Otomicol® combines three active ingredients – miconazole nitrate, prednisolone acetate and polymyxin B. This cutaneous suspension targets a range of pathogens including miconazole and polymyxin B-sensitive, Malassezia and Pseudomonas spp. and is licensed for use in both cats and dogs, Otomicol® is specifically formulated for the treatment of otitis externa as well as primary and secondary infections of the skin and adnexa1. This targeted, multi-action treatment provides veterinary surgeons with an effective treatment tool, if an infection is identified, to provide timely and effective care for optimal clinical outcomes.
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