Ear infections are almost always a top five reason for dogs seeing a veterinarian <Link>. A recent study published in Veterinary Dermatology found miconazole-resistant Malassezia pachydermatis in routine canine otitis externa cases; mostly traced to a small tweak in a single gene. The study authors say the findings point at the need for better antifungal stewardship.
“The most common topical antifungal treatments prescribed are azoles, and miconazole is the first line of defense. If the resistance is caused by a gene mutation altering the structure of the target protein, the antifungal cannot bind to it and will not kill the yeast,” shared Clarissa Pimentel de Souza, DVM, DACVD.
Source: DVM 360, July-August 2026. Link.
A common situation seen in practice is the use of an antifungal to treat recurrent yeast otitis externa without addressing the underlying allergies driving the infection. If the primary allergic disease is not concurrently worked up, the dog will develop another infection shortly after the discontinuation of the topical antifungal.” – Clarissa Pimentel de Souza, DVM, DACVD
INSIGHTS: Consider this article for discussion at a team meeting. It will make an easy conversation starter for distributor and manufacturer representatives, as well. Position the benefits of your product offerings, noting the azoles they contain.
Image: Link.
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