Otohematoma - Atlas of swine pathology

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Possible causes: Other

Otohematoma or porcine aural hematoma. Otohaematoma is caused by the rupture of blood vessels and the consequent accumulation of blood in the subperichondrial region of the ear. Rupture of these vessels is very common when pigs shake their heads violently, either from itching caused by external parasites such as sarcoptic mange or pediculosis, or ear biting from pen mates. It can also be caused by improper handling of the animals, such as grabbing the pigs by the ears, or by injuries caused by facility equipment.

Otohematoma resolves on its own, but the healing process can take several weeks and, depending on the size, it can affect feed intake.