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Read the following information.

Free OET Writing Sample Test with Answer Subtest Veterinary Science #4

Dog with Chronic Ear Infection

Case Notes (Expanded)

  • Patient: “Buddy” — 6-year-old male Cocker Spaniel

  • Owner: Mrs. Jane Turner

  • Date of Visit: 8 October 2025

  • Presenting Complaint: Persistent ear scratching, head shaking, foul-smelling discharge from both ears for several weeks.

  • History:

    • Recurrent otitis externa over past 2 years, worsening despite topical treatments.

    • Episodes every 2–3 months.

    • Recent increase in discharge and redness, mild lethargy.

  • Diet: Commercial dry food, no supplements.

  • Medical History: Vaccinations up to date. No systemic illness.

  • Examination Findings:

    • Bilateral erythema of ear canal

    • Thick brown purulent discharge

    • Odour present

    • Tympanic membrane not visible due to debris

  • Cytology: Yeast (Malassezia pachydermatis) and mixed bacterial growth.

  • Treatment Initiated: Ear cleaning, topical antibiotic-antifungal drops, oral anti-inflammatory.

  • Referral Request: Chronic/recurrent otitis externa — referral to veterinary dermatologist for long-term management and allergy assessment.

Writing Task:

In your answer:
- Expand the relevant notes into complete sentences
- Do not use note form
- Use letter format
The body of the letter should be approximately 180–200 words.

Dear Dr. Hughes,

I am referring “Buddy,” a six-year-old male Cocker Spaniel, for specialist dermatological evaluation and long-term management of chronic, recurrent otitis externa.

Buddy has experienced intermittent episodes of ear inflammation for the past two years, occurring approximately every two to three months. Despite multiple courses of topical antibiotic and antifungal therapy, his symptoms have recently worsened, with increased discharge, odour, and irritation. On examination, both ear canals were erythematous and filled with thick, brown, purulent debris, obscuring the tympanic membranes. Cytology confirmed the presence of Malassezia pachydermatis and mixed bacterial flora.

Initial management included thorough ear cleaning, topical antibacterial-antifungal drops, and a short course of oral anti-inflammatory medication. However, given the chronicity and breed predisposition, an underlying allergic or dermatological condition is suspected.

I would appreciate your assessment to identify potential allergic causes and provide a long-term treatment plan, including recommendations for maintenance therapy and preventive measures.

Thank you for your expert evaluation.

Yours sincerely,
Dr. Samuel Reed, DVM

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