My 17 yr. old Pom has some sort of black, greasy gunk on the outside of both ears. My vet and groomer are both befuddled by it. I have tried topical anti-fungal creams...
Karen R. replied:
Dr. Karen: This description of "black, greasy gunk" might be a hard one to provide any accurate guidance! ;) There are a few things in the description that may provide some direction (not itchy, bathing doesn't remove it, comes off with the hair, etc ). I would consider a keratinization disorder as a viable option. It all depends on if the "black gunk" is keratin (scale), some type of sebaceous debris, or other. Sorry, we won't be able to help you with a diagnosis. Dermatology is both visual and textural so we would need to see the actual lesion.
Karen R. replied:
Dr. Karen: No, I'm sorry…the photo is not really very helpful
Karen R. replied:
Dr. Karen: Yes, better! It is still hard to be specific but I would certainly be concerned about a keratinization disorder. Your veterinarian should be able to help identify a definite diagnosis.