Your dog was diagnosed with Ceruminous Gland Carcinoma. Uncommon. Most common malignant tumour of the canine ear canal. Chronic otitis externa may be a predisposing factor. Often diagnosed late due to location within ear canal. Compare 2 treatment options for dogs including Total Ear Canal Ablation + Lateral Bulla Osteotomy (TECA/LBO), Adjuvant Radiation (Post-TECA/LBO) — with survival times, costs, and what to expect during treatment.
Pet Cancer Options — Ceruminous Gland Carcinoma
Canine Oncology Treatment Guide
Ceruminous Gland Carcinoma
Epithelial
About This Cancer
Ceruminous gland carcinoma arises from the wax-producing glands (ceruminous glands) lining the external ear canal. It is the most common malignant tumour of the canine ear canal. Chronic ear infections (otitis externa) may serve as a predisposing factor, as the ongoing inflammation is thought to promote abnormal cell growth over time. The tumour's location within the ear canal often delays diagnosis, as early signs — such as ear discharge, head-shaking, or a foul odour — can be mistaken for a simple ear infection. By the time of diagnosis, the tumour may have invaded the deeper structures of the ear, including the bony bulla (the chamber behind the eardrum). Treatment typically requires total ear canal ablation with bulla osteotomy (TECA-BO) — complete surgical removal of the ear canal combined with opening and cleaning of the bony chamber behind the eardrum.
No formal staging system
Clinically staged by extent of involvement
Prognostic Factors(1)
Minimum Workup(6 steps)
Median Survival Time Comparison
How long the average patient survives with each treatment
Each treatment is rated by how much published research supports its use. Solid bars indicate stronger evidence; dashed bars mean less certainty.
Please note: All treatment data is sourced from published peer-reviewed literature. Survival times and cost figures are approximate guides. Your pet's individual factors — including tumour grade, stage, and overall health — will influence outcomes and should guide all treatment decisions. The strength-of-evidence rating reflects how much research exists, not how strongly a treatment is recommended. This tool is designed to help you have informed conversations with your veterinary oncologist, not to replace them. Costs shown are US referral centre estimates and may vary significantly by region.