Differential diagnostic value of tympanometry in adhesive processes and otosclerosis

Abstract

280 tympanograms were recorded in sound-conductive hearing loss to assess their value in the differential diagnosis of otosclerosis and adhesive processes. A normal tympanogram can be recorded in otosclerosis. In 48% of adhesive processes a more or less normal impedance pattern can be demonstrated. Therefore, in evaluating tympanograms in adhesive processes, one must take into consideration the microscopic picture of the eardrum and its mobility.

Key Words:

• Differential diagnosis
• Tympanometry
• Otosclerosis
• Adhesive process